A new rivalry could be brewing between the Colorado Avalanche and the Nashville Predators

A new division rivalry could be in the works between the Colorado Avalanche and the Nashville Predators. The Preds made a huge splash this offseason by signing a number of key free agents. Those signings have catapulted the Predators into the contender conversation in the Western Conference.

Meanwhile, the Colorado Avalanche had a relatively quiet offseason. Of course, it’s worth pointing out that they are a much better team than Nashville. The Avs had no need for major moves this offseason.

Now that Nashville could be considered a serious contender in the Western Conference, it raises questions about a potential rivalry with the Avs.

Specifically, the two clubs will be jockeying for positions in the Central Division. Last season, the Avs finished third behind the Dallas Stars and the Winnipeg Jets. Assuming both clubs have strong seasons this upcoming campaign, the Avs and Preds could be fighting for the third spot.

Then again, why not assume the Avs and Preds duke it out for the second and third spots in the Central? Of course, that statement is based on the assumption the Stars take the Central for the second year in a row.

This line of reasoning may push the Jets to a wildcard spot this upcoming season, setting up a potential collision course between the Predators and Avalanche in the first round of the playoffs. If that’s the case, two highly talented teams will face off, sending one potential contender home early.

Looking toward a first-round matchup between the Colorado Avalanche and the Nashville Predators

Under the assumption the Avalanche and Predators finish second and third in the Central, both clubs will be poised to meet in the first round. This possibility could fuel a heated rivalry during the regular season. The four contests this year between the two teams could get heated, especially as the season winds down.

According to the Avs' season schedule, the two teams faceoff against one another for the first time on November 2 in Denver. Then, they will lock horns on November 11 in Nashville. From there, the two teams will meet on December 14th in Nashville before their final meeting on February 22, 2025, in Denver.

While there’s no doubt both clubs will be looking to take each other out, there’s one X-factor to consider. Former Tampa Bay Lightning captain Steven Stamkos joined the Predators this offseason. Stamkos may have a score to settle with the Avs, as Colorado thwarted Tampa’s chance at a three-peat in 2022.

Could Stamkos have a chip on his shoulder against Colorado?

If he does, it could make for a very interesting storyline for two teams destined to meet at some point in this year’s playoffs. Of course, that collision could be delayed if the Avs win the division. Similarly, if the Predators finish the season in a wildcard spot, the road leading to both teams facing each other would take some interesting detours.