Colorado Avalanche: Memorable Moments from 2017

DENVER, CO - DECEMBER 31: Members of the Colorado Avalanche salute the crowd after a win against the New York Islanders at the Pepsi Center on December 31, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. The Avalanche defeated the Islanders 6-1. (Photo by Michael Martin/NHLI via Getty Images)
DENVER, CO - DECEMBER 31: Members of the Colorado Avalanche salute the crowd after a win against the New York Islanders at the Pepsi Center on December 31, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. The Avalanche defeated the Islanders 6-1. (Photo by Michael Martin/NHLI via Getty Images)
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DENVER, CO – NOVEMBER 16: Gabriel Landeskog

Gabriel Landeskog’s First NHL Hat Trick

This was a popular moment. Here’s another take on it, by Anthony Noga

A great moment for me was when Gabriel Landeskog scored his hat-trick goal against the Washington Capitals on November 16th.

It capped off one of the more exciting games the Avalanche have played in the past few years and was a great display by his teammates to look for him to get him the hat-trick. There was some good patience and puck movement punctuated by Landeskog battling where he battles best – right in front of the net.

With Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen assisting, the undisputed top three forwards all contributed to the captain’s first hat-trick in a bounce back game after a disappointing trip in Sweden. It was also the first game in the Pepsi Center since Duchene was traded. Those three are and will be the go to guys now, and to see all of them bust out and put up 12 points really made a statement, especially in front of their fans. Plus, seeing Landeskog’s old game thrown back in his face – literally – as he skated past the bench was a lot of fun.

Beyond that, this was the game where I personally finished coming around on MacKinnon as a superstar. I was still a little unsure if he was just running hot or if he was having his long awaited breakout. His five point night helped ease the last of my doubts. And he hasn’t slowed down any either.

All in all, that goal perfectly encapsulated the Avalanche team I’d like to see. The big guys carrying the team, showing some great skill, teamwork, resilience and perseverance, and having a tonne of fun while doing it.

One of the best Colorado Avalanche moments of 2017.