The Colorado Avalanche will officially kick off the 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs on Sunday against the LA Kings.
The Kings squeaked into the second wild card spot this season, setting up a showdown with the best team in the NHL this season. But things are going to get even tougher for the Kings. By the looks of things, the Avs could have a fully healthy lineup for Game 1.
Here’s what the practice lines looked like on Saturday:
#GoAvsGo practice lines today…
— Evan Rawal (@evanrawal) April 18, 2026
Lehkonen - MacKinnon - Necas
Kelly - Nelson - Nichushkin
Landeskog - Kadri - Roy
Colton - Drury - O’Connor - Kiviranta - Bardakov all in green.
Top 6 Kelly is a go.
Understandably, coach Jared Bednar did not want to tip his hand during his latest presser. He didn’t want to answer any questions about lineups, though it’s fairly obvious how Colorado will play on Sunday.
While Nazem Kadri and Josh Manson are not believed to be 100%, they’ll likely be in the lineup. That’s no bueno, considering just how deep the Avalanche are.
All told, here’s what the forward lines would most likely shape up:
- Artturi Lehkonen-Nathan MacKinnon-Martin Necas
- Parker Kelly-Brock Nelson-Valeri Nichushkin
- Gabriel Landeskog (C)-Nazem Kadri-Nicolas Roy
- Ross Colton-Jack Drury-Logan O’Connor
The most interesting change is seeing Parker Kelly in the top six. Considering just how well he’s played, he’s earned the shot to skate with Nelson and Nichushkin. It should be noted this line will be one tough group to play against. They’ve got size and plenty of grit. If the Kings somehow manage to keep the MacKinnon line in check, the Avs’ second line could be the one to take over.
Now, let’s look at the defense pairs:
- Devon Toews-Cale Makar
- Brent Burns-Josh Manson
- Brett Kulak-Sam Malinski
No surprises here. It’s a bit of a shame Nick Blankenburg gets squeezed out. He’s played well of late and will surely draw back into the lineup in case Manson needs a night off.
As for the starting goalie, Scott Wedgewood should get the nod. He’ll likely be the 1A guy to start the playoffs. Should he need some time off, or heaven forbid get hurt, it’ll be MacKenzie Blackwood who gets the call.
It’s unlikely there will be a rotation, so expect Wedgewood to get the lion’s share of starts. Hopefully, the Avs can wrap up the series in short order. Doing so would allow everyone on the squad to get some much need rest ahead of what could be the toughest challenge the Avalanche will face this postseason, in the second round.
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