Avalanche and Sharks Seek Defensive Resurgence After Slow Starts
Colorado Avalanche and San Jose Sharks Seek Defensive Resurgence After Slow Starts
As the NHL season heats up, the Colorado Avalanche prepare to face the San Jose Sharks in a critical matchup that both teams desperately need. With the Avalanche struggling at a 1-4 record and hovering near the bottom of the Central Division, and the Sharks winless at 0-2-3 and currently sitting last in the Pacific Division, this game represents an opportunity for either team to find their footing.
Avalanche Aim for Defensive Improvement
Despite their offensive capabilities, the Avalanche find themselves in a challenging position this season. Averaging 3.40 goals per game, they recently netted four goals in their latest outing, showcasing the potential of their top-tier offense. Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen have been particularly effective, combining for six goals and 13 assists. Additionally, Ross Colton and Casey Middlestadt have contributed with eight goals and two assists, while defenseman Cale Makar has excelled from the blue line, adding a goal and eight assists to help drive offensive production.
However, the Avalanche’s defensive performance has been alarming, allowing an average of 5.60 goals per game, which ranks among the worst in the league. While Cale Makar and Samuel Girard have anchored the top defensive pairings, the rest of the unit has struggled significantly, giving opposing teams ample opportunities to exploit weaknesses. Goaltender Alexandar Georgiev‘s performance has been particularly concerning, sporting a dismal .811 save percentage and a 4.99 goals-against average over 106 shots faced, leading to an alarming -8.9 goals saved above average. The Avalanche need a substantial turnaround in their defensive play to regain their competitive edge.
Sharks Search for Defensive Stability
On the other side, the San Jose Sharks are grappling with their own set of challenges. Their offense has sputtered, averaging a meager 2.20 goals per game. Although Tyler Toffoli and Mikael Granlund have combined for four goals and seven assists, only six players have managed to score, severely limiting the team’s offensive options and making it easier for opponents to defend against them.
While the Sharks’ offense has been lackluster, their defense has also failed to hold up, surrendering an average of 4.20 goals per game, with a staggering 12 goals allowed in their last two contests. Jake Walman and Cody Ceci have led the top defensive pairings, but similar to the Avalanche, the rest of the unit has struggled to contain opposing offenses. Goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood has not fared much better, posting an .875 save percentage and a 4.88 goals-against average over 96 shots, resulting in a -2.0 goals saved above average. The Sharks need to shore up their defensive game to turn their season around and compete effectively.
Conclusion
As the Colorado Avalanche and San Jose Sharks prepare to meet on the ice, both teams face critical challenges that could define their seasons. The Avalanche must tighten their defensive strategies while continuing to capitalize on their offensive potential. Meanwhile, the Sharks need to find a balance between improving their defense and generating more scoring opportunities.
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