2024-25 season expectations for the Colorado Avalanche

The Colorado Avalanche fell short last season, leaving many scratching their heads after such an incredible regular season. With such a solid roster, the expectation from a year ago was to make the playoffs, run the gauntlet, and then secure the Stanley Cup. That didn't happen as they were bounced in the second round by the Dallas Stars.

Another year older, the Avs find themselves in a better position with a stronger team than last season. Additionally, many young pieces are entering their prime years, which means it is as good as it gets right now. There is no room for failure for this group, and that will be evident if this season does not meet these expectations.

Speaking of that, what is to be expected of the 2024-25 Colorado Avalanche?

Central Division Champs

You cannot attend the big dance without first dominating the regular season. After being back-to-back-to-back Central Division champions, the Avs placed third-best last season. At 50-25-7, they fell behind the aforementioned Stars and Winnipeg Jets, in that order.

Making it a fourth straight 50+ win season would be an impressive feat in itself, but it also might be a necessary one. Winnipeg and Dallas retained most of their best chess pieces and picked up a few new ones in free agency this offseason, so you know that they will still be hanging around the top. Another sneaky, on-the-low, team to look out for in 2024-25 is the revamped Nashville Predators. With forwards Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault, along with defenseman Brady Skjei, they have added some serious star power to a team that finished just behind the Avs in the Central standings last season.

I would argue that it would also be another expectation to try and secure the President's Trophy, the team with the NHL's best record, but it might not be worth it. Many argue, and facts certainly back it up, as the trophy being cursed. Since 1985, only eight teams have won the President's Trophy and lifted the Stanley Cup in the same season. You make the case: would it be beneficial for the Avalanche to have the President's trophy as an expectation for next season?

Stanley Cup Champs

Every single team in the NHL, no matter what their previous campaign's outcome was, should have this expectation as their top priority. The Colorado Avalanche are no exception. With a highly talented roster, an experienced coaching staff, and a General Manager, Chris MacFarland, who made seemingly all the right moves this offseason. There should be no doubt that this team can potentially win the Stanley Cup in 2024-25.

These two expectations are certainly not easy ones, but as a top-tier NHL team, it is obvious. Anything short of perfection for them can call next season a bust, even if any positives come out of it. The pressure has never been higher for the Avs.

Do you think the Avalanche can secure their second Stanley Cup in four years next season?