Mile High Sticking
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Looking at where the Colorado Avalanche will finish in 2024-25 

The Colorado Avalanche are poised for a strong 2024-25 season. While disaster lurks in the shadows, there is plenty of reason for optimism this upcoming season. The return of spiritual leader Gabe Landeskog could be just the boost the Avs need to make a return to the Stanley Cup Final.

By Nestor Quixtan

The Colorado Avalanche look to have a strong 2024-25 season, potentially competing for the Presidents' Trophy
The Colorado Avalanche look to have a strong 2024-25 season, potentially competing for the Presidents' Trophy / Tyler Schank/Clarkson Creative/GettyImages
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The Worst-Case Scenario 

In this scenario, I don’t envision the Avs missing the playoffs. While that’s always a possibility, the wheels would have to completely fall off the wagon in order for that to happen.  

So, the worst-case scenario would be the Avalanche falling into a wildcard spot, essentially fighting off teams like the St. Louis Blues, Nashville Predators, and Minnesota Wild for wildcard spots. 

This scenario would also include major regressions for MacKinnon, Rantanen, and Makar. In particular, MacKinnon’s numbers would fall back down to Earth. While he could still top 100 points, his overall totals would not be close to last year’s mind-blogging stats. 

Additionally, goaltending would become the Avs’ Achilles heel. Georgiev would fail to live up to expectations as the number-one goalie, forcing the Avalanche to look for a suitable replacement via trade. Doing so could end up costing far more than the club would like to pay. 

Moreover, the Avs would face injury issues. For instance, a devastating injury to MacKinnon or Makar could derail the entire season. Even heart-and-soul leader Landeskog could end up proving he’s done for good. 

Then, there’s secondary scoring to worry about. For example, Middlestadt crashes to the ground, while Drouin looks more like his old Montreal self. The bottom six doesn’t chip in, leaving the top line to shoulder the offensive burden. 

Lastly, even with the Avs making the playoffs, they would most likely get bounced in the first round. As a wildcard team, they would most likely face the Stars or Edmonton Oilers in the first round. That prospect could mean a quick playoff exit. 

Personally, I feel this scenario is highly unlikely, but certainly plausible. It’s worth noting that Murphy’s Law is a real thing. Stranger things have happened in NHL history. So, fans shouldn’t discount this scenario from potentially playing out. 

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