Avalanche Face Challenges As Defending Champions But Remain Strong Playoff Contenders
- Landeskog's knee surgery and key free agent departures presented early obstacles for Avalanche's title defense.
- Despite Landeskog's absence, Avalanche still have superstar core led by MacKinnon, Rantanen, Makar, and Toews.
- Avalanche's strengths include elite talent of top players MacKinnon and Makar at both ends of ice.
- Lack of depth scoring and questionable second-line center Johansen are potential weaknesses.
- Avalanche's playoff fortunes will depend on stars' consistency and supporting cast's contributions.
Washington Post 
