The fans in Colorado were very disappointed last year in their team’s performance. Heading into last season the Avalanche were poised to make a run at the Stanley Cup. Coming of a surprise year that saw them win the Western Conference regular season. Last years lackluster play has continued into this season. This year the Avalanche are again off to a disappointing 4-9-1 start. The problems have been a plenty. The offense has been sluggish, goaltending is off, and the defense has been down right awful. Well what is the reason for a talented team such as Colorado to struggle?
The first problem may be one that many are afraid to address. Coaching seems to be the common denominator with the team’s struggles. Are players tired of the “I am always right attitude” of coach Patrick Roy. His sometimes arrogant approach to the game just may be wearing thin with many players on the Avalanche squad. It does put former teammate and general manager Joe Sakic in a very difficult spot. If Roy is unable to pull this team together quickly, the firing of Roy might just be a necessary decision to make.
The defense must also be addressed. According to Bruce Garioch of the Ottawa Sun, Sakic has been on the phone with numerous general managers around the league looking to sure up the defense. One spot for defensive relief may just be the Calgary Flames. The Flames have made it clear that they are willing to move veteran Dennis Wideman, and may also be forced to entertain trade inquires for shot blocking star Kris Russell. Russell is set to become a UFA at seasons end, and with pending RFA’s Johnny Gaudreau and Sean Monohan set to get paid the Flames may not be able to afford Russell.
Who would the Avalanche be willing to move? Veteran Jarome Iginla would be the first on the list. The future Hall of Fame player just keeps producing. He is somewhat expendable, with one year remaining on his $5.33 million dollar deal it looks as though he will be moved and not resigned in Colorado. That brings up a seriously crazy thought. Would Calgary be interested in bringing Iginla back to mentor Calgary’s young stars? He will forever be loved in Calgary. A long shot, but an intriquing thought.
With Nathan McKinnon and Tyson Barrie set to become RFA’s at the end of the season, the Avalanche will have to free up some cap space to be able to afford the raises that each player is expected to get. The fact of the matter is,- fans in Colorado expect that their team make the playoffs. With the way things look thus far it is beginning to look like a long shot. Sakic will earn his money this year figuring out this mess. It looks like the first move just may have to be one he hoped he would never have to make. The replacement of former teammate and now coach Patrick Roy.
Brad Burud the owner/editor of the Inside Edge Hockey News. I am a huge fan of hockey, from youth hockey, to junior hockey, and of course professional hockey. I have played, coached, worked as statistician, and watched hockey all of my life. Hockey is not just a game, it is a lifestyle and family. The game of hockey is great! It can bring you nights of great enjoyment. It also brings nights where you feel like your team will never win. I am proud to be a journalist for the greatest game in the world. I have a degree in Business Administration, Psychology from Minot State University. I also have a Hockey General Manager and Scouting, and Sports Communications/Journalism degree from Sports Management Worldwide. I am also a member of the Sports Executives Association. Most of all I am a fan. Hockey is a huge part of my life and my families life.