Colorado's flawless preseason run ends in a 2-1 loss to Vegas as opening-night lineups begin to take shape. Landeskog struck first for the Avalanche, finishing a feed from Nichushkin to punctuate early pressure. Howden answered for Vegas, and Karlsson delivered the late-game winner as the Golden Knights dominated late opportunities. Colorado limited penalties and leaned on a standout shift from Gavin Brindley, whose aggressive forechecking hints at a potential bottom-six role as rosters tighten.

Colorado’s preseason streak stays intact with a 4-2 win over Vegas as Colton and Drury connect twice, while Polin’s tying goal signals a rising depth play. With an AHL-heavy lineup, the AVs showcase young forwards and tackle defensive pairing questions, especially on the left. The rematch in Vegas looms as a true gauge for lineup decisions and PP potential, making this a helpful glance for early-season fantasy depth and roster battles.

Fantasy takeaways center on Polin, Colton, and Drury as likely early contributors, while Malinski’s imperfect left-side play could open ice for Brindley or Bardakov if they continue the forecheck and keep possession. No power-play magic yet keeps expectations tempered, but roster shakeups could spark PP rotation changes as the season begins.

Gabe Landeskog’s return to NHL action after a knee cartilage transplant has the Colorado Avalanche buzzing. In his first preseason outing, he wired a helpful assist, screened the goalie, and even dropped the gloves, signaling the captain’s edge isn’t far behind. Coach Jared Bednar called him great and moving well during camp, easing concerns after years away. Landeskog admits he’s a touch rusty, but preseason is exactly the place to dial in the creases while the team builds around his leadership.

This night also spotlighted the balance of risk and reward as Makar’s health remains under watch after an elbow incident, and Colorado’s depth and tempo looked revitalized with Landeskog back. The return matters beyond one game: a veteran voice and aggressive presence could sharpen the Avs’ physical identity and secondary scoring as the regular season looms.