Preseason preview: The Colorado Avalanche host Utah Hockey Club

The Colorado Avalanche host the NHL’s newest team, the Utah Hockey Club, at Ball Arena on Sunday evening. The game marks the first time ever both clubs meet. The former Arizona Coyotes have had a strong start to the preseason, while the Colorado Avalanche have yet to earn their first preseason win.

The game promises to be an interesting showdown as both clubs look to gain momentum heading into the regular season. With that in mind, here are three key things to keep in mind as the Colorado Avalanche face off against the Utah Hockey Club on Sunday evening.

Three key things to consider between the Colorado Avalanche and Utah Hockey Club in preseason game

The Colorado Avalanche cut the preseason roster by three

The Avs announced that three players have been sent down to the Colorado Eagles following their participation in training camp.

First, goaltender Kevin Mandolese, who made one preseason appearance, will likely have an opportunity to play significant time in the AHL. While Mandolese did not struggle against the Dallas Stars in the Avs’ last outing, he didn’t seem to impress quite as much.

With the goalie tandem pretty much set at the NHL level, it’s better for Mandolese to earn regular playing time with the Eagles.

Second, blueliners Wyatt Aamodt and Keaton Middleton were also assigned to the Eagles. Both players saw action this preseason but also seemed destined for much more regular playing time in the AHL. Hopefully, all three players can have solid seasons in the minors.

Fans could see the big guns for the first time this preseason

The Avs will hopefully suit up the big guns in Nathan MacKinnon, Mikko Rantanen, and Cale Makar. The trio, among other regulars, have not seen preseason action thus far. So, it will be exciting for fans to see the big stars at home.

All three superstars are poised for big years. MacKinnon will be looking to repeat last year’s Hart Trophy season, while Makar will be looking to add another Norris Trophy to his resume. As for Rantanen, he’s entering the final year of his current contract. So, there’s a lot on the line for the Finnish winger.

Utah will be a tough challenge

The Utah Hockey Club is chock full of young talent. The club boasts an impressive group of forwards who could potentially become one of the league’s most enviable cores.

As such, Sunday night’s game will prove to be an interesting challenge for the Avs. Utah will be looking to get back on track following a 5-2 loss to the Vegas Golden Knights in their last outing. So, Utah should be motivated to jump the gun from the start.

Fans should expect a spirited, up-tempo game in this Western Conference tilt.