The Colorado Avalance concluded its rookie showcase and wrapped up another successful charity golf tournament which can only mean one thing - another "long" summer is over and training camp is finally here!
The Avs get back to work and the expectations are high once again, Colorado is the Stanley Cup preseason favorite, and anything less will not be tolerated.
Colorado opened its 26th training camp today with pictures, medicals, and all the good stuff that comes with the return of hockey. Of course, they also have Covid rules to contend with, but other than that it feels like the old days... or as I like to call it... pre-Covid days.
The team will take the ice for the first time on Thursday with two sessions a day for the next several days. Fans will be welcome under Covid rules as expected. The entire schedule is below.
2021-22 Avalanche Training Camp Schedule:
Thursday, Sept. 23
Training Camp at Family Sports Center
Group 1 on ice - 8:45-10:15 a.m.
Group 2 on ice - 11 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 24
Training Camp at Family Sports Center
Group 2 on ice - 8:45-10:15 a.m.
Group 1 on ice - 11 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 25
Training Camp at Family Sports Center
Group 1 on ice - 8:45-10:15 a.m.
Group 2 on ice - 11:15 a.m.-1 p.m.
Sunday, Sept. 26
No scheduled events
Monday, Sept. 27
Training Camp at Family Sports Center
Group 1 on ice - 9-11 a.m.
Group 2 on ice - 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
The Avs will play six preseason games with the first one facing off next Tuesday against the Vegas Golden Knights.
The regular season begins October 13 at home versus the Chicago Blackhawks.
...
Fortunately, this team has more answers than questions, but hope springs eternal and the Avs have plenty to be hopeful for. This team is going to com[ete not only for a division crown, but they should be in contention for the President's Trophy. Nevertheless, what are some potential storylines to watch for during this camp?
- How will Darcy Kuemper adjust to the pressure of such high expectations? Colorado wants to win the Stanley Cup and it starts between the pipes. Goalie injuries and inconsistencies have plagued them in recent seasons. Will Kuemper be the right guy to help carry the ball over the line?
- Is Bowen Byram ready to take that next step? He looked good in the rookie games and it feels like he should play a massive role for this team from this day forward. How quickly will he take that leap?
- We know about the players that left the team, but what will the new guys provide? Can Ryan Murray find his game again will less responsibility? Will Mikail Maltsev or Kurtis McDermaid add anything of value?
- Will any of the PTO players (Jack Johnson, Artem Anisimov, Jared Cowen) force their way onto this team? Is there any room for them?
- Is Alex Newhook ready for a full-time role in the NHL?
- Is Jared Bednar feeling any heat with another year of massive expectations?
Hockey is back and so are my regular blogs. I'm ready to take this ride along with you guys. It should be a great season and I'm pumped for it.
Thanks for reading,
Steve
Colorado Avalanche Blogger • 
Join the Discussion:
»