Colorado Avalanche vs Anaheim Ducks Picks and Predictions October 18th 2024

Ducks Out to Hand Avalanche Fifth Straight Loss to Start Season

The Anaheim Ducks are off to a promising start in the 2024-25 NHL season and are looking to build on their early success as they visit the struggling Colorado Avalanche on Friday night in Denver. With the Avalanche still searching for their first win of the season, the Ducks are eager to capitalize on their momentum and add to Colorado’s woes.

Ducks’ Momentum After Overtime Thriller

Anaheim has shown resilience early on, winning two of their first three games. Their most recent victory came in a thrilling 4-3 overtime win against the Utah Hockey Club on Wednesday. Pavel Mintyukov led the way with two goals, including a crucial game-tying score late in the third period, while Leo Carlsson delivered the game-winner just 54 seconds into overtime.

Despite their promising start, the Ducks have struggled against the Avalanche in recent seasons. Colorado has been dominant in the series, going 13-2-2 against Anaheim since the 2020-21 season. However, with the Avalanche in a slump, Anaheim has a chance to flip the script.

Avalanche Searching for First Win

The Avalanche have stumbled out of the gate, losing all four of their opening games. They’ve been outscored 25-13, including giving up four empty-net goals. Despite holding a lead in several games, Colorado has struggled to close out periods and maintain control.

In their most recent loss, a 5-3 defeat against the Boston Bruins, Colorado showed flashes of improvement but couldn’t secure the win. Alexandar Georgiev, who has been in net for all four losses, remains confident in his team’s ability to bounce back.

With Kaapo Kahkonen potentially joining the team soon to compete for the starting goalie spot, Georgiev could face added pressure to turn things around quickly.

Injuries Taking a Toll on Colorado

The Avalanche’s slow start has been compounded by injuries. Top defenseman Devon Toews will miss his third consecutive game, and forward Jonathan Drouin is set to miss his fourth. While there was concern after Miles Wood left Wednesday’s game with an injury, he may return as soon as Saturday.

Key Matchups and What to Watch

1. Ducks’ Youth vs. Avalanche’s Experience

Anaheim’s young stars, like Leo Carlsson and Pavel Mintyukov, have energized the team. Colorado’s experienced roster will need to step up and rely on their veteran leadership to counter the Ducks’ youthful energy.

2. Georgiev vs. Ducks’ Offense

Georgiev has faced heavy pressure this season, and Anaheim’s offense—led by players like Trevor Zegras—will look to capitalize on any defensive lapses. Georgiev will need to be sharp to stop the Ducks’ surging attack.

3. Avalanche’s Resilience

Colorado has the talent to turn things around, but they need consistency. The absence of Devon Toews has left a gap in the defense, and how the Avalanche respond to Anaheim’s confidence could determine whether they finally notch a win.

Game Outlook

The Ducks have started the season strong, with clutch performances from their young stars. Meanwhile, the Avalanche are desperate for a win after their worst start in recent memory. With the pressure mounting in Colorado, the home crowd could help push the Avalanche to play with urgency and energy. However, if Anaheim can exploit Colorado’s defensive weaknesses, they could extend the Avalanche’s misery.

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Prediction

While Anaheim has momentum and confidence, Colorado’s desperation to avoid a fifth straight loss at home could give them the edge. Expect a close, hard-fought game.

Avalanche 4, Ducks 3