Anaheim Ducks vs Colorado Avalanche Picks and Predictions December 20th 2024

Avalanche, Ducks Look to Keep Momentum with Late-Game Magic

The Colorado Avalanche and Anaheim Ducks are set to clash on Friday, both fueled by recent third-period comebacks that turned the tide in their favor. The Ducks will host the Avalanche, hoping to extend their two-game winning streak against a Colorado squad that’s building momentum after a dramatic finish on Thursday night.

Colorado’s Third-Period Surge

The Avalanche overcame a late 2-1 deficit against the San Jose Sharks on Thursday, scoring three unanswered goals to secure a 4-2 victory. Mikko Rantanen’s power-play goal early in the third period tied the game, and Joel Kiviranta took over with two clutch goals to seal the win.

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Despite entering the third period with a less-than-stellar record when trailing, Colorado showed poise.

“Just (a) calm, composed, solid third period,” said goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood, who stopped 32 shots. “They knew what they had to do. It’s nice to watch. … You can see that character coming here.”

Anaheim’s Late-Game Heroics

The Ducks have also embraced late-game drama, pulling off two consecutive victories with thrilling third-period rallies. Against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Jackson LaCombe’s late goal set up Alex Killorn’s overtime winner in a 4-3 road victory. Back at home on Wednesday, the Ducks stunned the league-leading Winnipeg Jets with two goals in the final five minutes to claim a 3-2 win. Frank Vatrano tied the game, and Troy Terry delivered the game-winner with just 26 seconds remaining.

Terry credited the Ducks’ fresh legs after a few days off.

“We’ve been on the other side of that when it’s a back-to-back,” Terry said. “It gets tiring come the second and third period.”

Key Players to Watch

Colorado’s Nathan MacKinnon continues to dominate the NHL leaderboard with 52 points and 39 assists. His two assists against San Jose showcased his consistent playmaking ability. Rantanen, who scored his 19th goal of the season on Thursday, is riding a seven-game point streak with 13 points during that stretch.

For Anaheim, Terry and Vatrano have been leading the charge. Terry, who tops the team in points (25), has been pivotal in the Ducks’ recent success, combining with Vatrano for 17 points over the last eight games. Both forwards have been integral to Anaheim’s late-game surges.

Goaltending Matchup

The Avalanche are likely to start Scott Wedgewood, who has been reliable since joining the team with a .931 save percentage and a 1.92 goals-against average in five games. On the other side, the Ducks could turn to John Gibson if they maintain their goalie rotation. Gibson has historically performed well against Colorado, boasting a .925 save percentage despite an even 10-10-2 record.

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Special Teams and Recent History

Both teams have faced challenges with penalty killing, but Colorado has improved significantly, allowing just one power-play goal in its past seven games. Meanwhile, the Ducks’ penalty-kill unit remains a work in progress.

Colorado has dominated this matchup in recent years, going 13-1-2 in its last 16 games against Anaheim. Their last meeting in October saw the Avalanche claim a 4-3 overtime win, showcasing their knack for finding ways to win tight contests.

What’s at Stake

Both teams are aiming to carry their late-game magic forward. For Colorado, maintaining focus in the second game of a back-to-back will be key. Anaheim, fresh off two thrilling victories, hopes to turn its newfound energy into a longer streak. Fans can expect a battle of resilience and determination when these two meet under the lights in Anaheim.