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 Avalanche odds lifted to 9.5-1 as Barkov’s knee surgery rattles the Panthers and opens a wide, unsettled field. The piece outlines what could go right for Colorado: Landeskog back means leadership and better faceoffs; Necas in a contract year could unleash 90+ point pace beside MacKinnon; the cap space lift enables smarter moves; and a deeper, versatile PP unit torches defenses. Key risks: Necas’ long-term deal, Nichushkin’s health, and depth beyond the top six. Fantasy take: track Landeskog’s off-season ramp, Necas’s line integration, and goaltending stability as the season unfolds.

Day 2 of Avalanche camp sharpened defensive structure and 5v5 pressure, with Wedgewood steadier between the pipes as Blackwood sits sidelined. Landeskog set the tone with leadership and a slot goal, Nichushkin showed a sharper stride and heavier shot, and MacKinnon drove the offense with intensity. Burns and Middleton provided blue-line depth, while Toews and Malinski tested veteran pairing chemistry. A mix of veterans and young skaters surfaced as clear depth options ahead of the preseason.