Colorado Avalanche: 5 Reasons For Optimism

3. Motivated and hungry core

You’ve probably heard the phrase “learning experience” a few times this season, and will probably hear it as a bit of a rallying cry moving forward.

I think the core of the Avalanche will come back hungry for more than just breakfast burritos next season…

… sorry, I’m back. Had to go make myself a breakfast burrito. It sounded amazing, and was.

Erik Johnson and Nathan MacKinnon will be back from injuries that shortened their seasons. They have proven themselves as key members of the Avalanche core, but will look to prove to the league that they are two of the best at their respective positions going forward.

Gabriel Landeskog has been coming into his own as a captain, and his ability to lead this team should really start to come to fruition. Matt Duchene and Ryan O’Reilly. These guys have already seen a few ups and downs since putting on the burgundy. I’m sure they will be motivated to ensure that this team is on the up-swing for years to come.

Jarome Iginla and Alex Tanguay are in the twilights of their careers. Iggy wants his first cup, and Tangs probably wouldn’t mind another cup run himself. I’m sure they’ll be motivated.

I think adversity can tear a team apart, or bring a team together, and form the foundation upon which future success is built upon. The Avalanche are a young team, for the most part, with plenty of opportunities for success still in front of them. I 100% believe that this team will benefit from not accomplishing their goals this season. I believe this team came together this past season.

That hunger and a chip on their shoulder is a good thing. Especially in a league where you can’t take anything for granted.