The Colorado Avalanche are embracing a youth movement as they kick off the 2024-25 NHL season, likely featuring five players with limited NHL experience against the Vegas Golden Knights.

Coach Jared Bednar expressed optimism about the infusion of young talent, including top prospect Calum Ritchie and others like Ivan and Nikolai Kovalenko, who are stepping up due to key injuries in the lineup.

With a mix of rookies and returning players, the Avalanche aim to maintain their championship aspirations while navigating roster changes.