The Colorado Avalanche have encountered some bumps along the road so far in 2011-12, but now find themselves in the playoff picture in the NHL’s Western Conference.
Earlier this season, many Avalanche bloggers were calling for the firing of Avalanche head coach Joe Sacco. Most of the talks to replace Sacco have quieted down, because of the team’s winning record this season.
The Colorado Avalanche, since Joe Sacco took over as head coach, have always played well “with their backs up against the wall,” to use Joe Sacco’s own words, and although the Avalanche have gone through some rough points this season, a Joe Sacco hockey club has always found a way to get back on track with winning hockey games, which has proven to be the case so far in 2011-12.
There are plenty of reasons for Avalanche fans to be excited as we pass the halfway point of the season with the NHL’s All-Star weekend approaching.
Peter Mueller, plagued by concussion symptoms that sidelined him for the entire 2010-11 season has made a triumphant return to the Avalanche lineup with his outstanding play, showing the hockey world what he brings to the Avalanche in different situations with his outstanding ability and talent.
Ryan O’Reilly, as I have said before in the past, is the hardest-working player on the Avalanche roster. After being drafted No. 33 overall in the 2009 draft and making the club as an 18 year old, he demonstrated tremendous potential, and this year, through his own hard work, dedication, and strong desire to get better with every game, every practice, we are seeing why the Avs were so lucky that O’Reilly was still available at the No. 33 spot in the 2009 draft and is having a career year this season with the Avs, leading the team in points.
Last but not least, both Avalanche goaltenders, Semyon Varlamov and Jean-Sebastien Giguere have shown they can win games for the Avs. Varlamov was brought to Colorado with the intention of being the starter, and has played well, and when he has experienced difficulty, fellow netminder Jean-Sebastien Giguere, who has won both a Stanley Cup and a Conn Smythe Trophy has played better than anyone expected when he has been called upon, and has shown that he is more than just a reliable backup.
Get excited Avs fans, this team is looking good.
Comments