The Colorado Avalanche will face off against the Anaheim Ducks on April 10, 2023, in what promises to be an exciting matchup between two Western Conference teams. Both teams will be looking to secure a win as they push towards the playoffs. Let’s take a closer look at these two teams and how they match up against each other.
28 MARCH 2023
TIME: 10:00 PM ET
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The Colorado Avalanche have been one of the top teams in the NHL this season, currently sitting in second place in the Western Conference with a record of 46-18-4 as of March 26, 2023.
Offensively, the Avalanche are a powerhouse, with the third-best goals-per-game average in the league, averaging 3.59 goals per game. They have multiple players who can contribute on the scoresheet, including center Nathan MacKinnon, who is one of the top players in the league, and right wing Mikko Rantanen.
Defensively, the Avalanche have been solid this season, with the ninth-best goals-against average in the NHL, averaging 2.74 goals per game. They have a strong defense led by defenseman Cale Makar, who has emerged as one of the top young defensemen in the league.
In goal, the Avalanche have relied on a duo of goaltenders, Philipp Grubauer and Darcy Kuemper. Grubauer has been one of the top goaltenders in the league this season, with a save percentage of .922 and a goals-against average of 2.36.
Anaheim Ducks
The Anaheim Ducks have had a tougher season than the Avalanche, currently sitting in seventh place in the Western Conference with a record of 32-27-9 as of March 26, 2023.
Offensively, the Ducks have struggled this season, with the second-worst goals-per-game average in the league, averaging 2.35 goals per game. They have lacked consistent scoring and will need to find ways to generate offense against the strong Avalanche defense.
Defensively, the Ducks have been decent this season, with the 17th-best goals-against average in the NHL, averaging 3.01 goals per game. They have a solid defense led by defenseman Hampus Lindholm, but will need to tighten up defensively to compete with the Avalanche’s high-powered offense.
In goal, the Ducks have relied on goaltender John Gibson, who has had an up-and-down season. Gibson has a save percentage of .913 and a goals-against average of 2.98.
Comparison
When comparing the Colorado Avalanche and the Anaheim Ducks, it’s clear that the Avalanche are the stronger team this season. They have a more potent offense and a stronger defense than the Ducks.
Offensively, the Avalanche have a significant edge. They have been one of the top offensive teams in the league this season, while the Ducks have struggled to score goals. The Avalanche’s high-powered offense, led by Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen, will be a challenge for the Ducks to contain.
Defensively, the Avalanche are also the stronger team. They have a strong defense led by Cale Makar, while the Ducks have struggled defensively at times this season. The Avalanche’s solid defense will make it tough for the Ducks to generate scoring chances.
In terms of goaltending, the Avalanche also have the edge. Philipp Grubauer has been one of the top goaltenders in the league this season, while John Gibson has had an up-and-down year. Grubauer’s strong play in goal will make it tough for the Ducks to score.
Overall, the Colorado Avalanche are the stronger team on paper and are likely to come out on top in this matchup against the Anaheim Ducks. The Ducks will need to find ways to generate offense and tighten up defensively.