Denver Post sports writer Mike Chambers responds to questions in the Avs Mailbag every other week during the regular season.
Pose an Avalanche- or NHL-related question for the Avs Mailbag.
This team appears to be for real this year and I see a deep run in the Stanley Cup playoffs. Is there an Avs team in the past that reminds you of this current roster?
–Terry, Centennial
It’s hard to compare today’s game to that of 15 years ago — particularly in the clutch-and-grab era that ended with the 2004-05 lockout. So, no, no other Avs team reminds me of this one — mostly because this club hasn’t been decent since 2008. As for the deep run in the playoffs, you have to be lucky and good. You have to get the bounces. You have to have excellent goaltending. Look at Tampa Bay and Calgary last season. Regular-season conference champs and they bow out in the first round, winning a combined one game.
Hey Mike, what is the latest with Mikko Rantanen? Kinda hoping the leg injury it isn’t too serious. Also, did this have anything to do with poor ice conditions or just a freak injury?
— Jenny, Denver
Jenny, I don’t think it had anything to do with the ice because it was the first shift of the second period. Typically, you’re much more prone to catch an edge on choppy ice and that certainly wasn’t the case. Just a freak injury, for sure. But it doesn’t sound as bad as first feared and I expect him to be back in a week or so.
Is there any platform that carries Avs games?
— Hank, Englewood
Platforms? Yes, many of them online, I’ve heard. But they’re illegal, thus I can’t point you in that direction. It sounds like KSE is trying to get an Avs game on Channel 20, like the Nuggets’ home opener Friday.
Hey, Mike, I have enjoyed following your articles while the TV dispute is going on. What is the latest on this front with Altitude? As a fan of the Nuggets and Avalanche, I can say I miss watching my hometown teams. Thanks.
— John, Parker
John, thanks for the compliment. As for the TV dispute, there is nothing new.
The Avs are currently 7-1-1 and leading the Western Conference. I know it’s early, but are they the favorites to win the west? Are the defending Stanley Cup champs the only real problem for Colorado this season?
— RC, Denver
No, no, RC, there are many really good teams in the mix. The Avs are certainly a Central Division favorite who can compete for the Western Conference title, but I still think Calgary, Vegas and Nashville will be contenders with St. Louis and Colorado. Edmonton and Arizona are off to good starts, and I wouldn’t count out Dallas, which is just 3-7-1 as I type.
I would like to respond to your best ways to catch the Avs game is to attend. Having gone to the game last weekend we added up our four tickets at a minimum of $100 each ($400) plus drink increases to $14.75 each x 4 $59.00 = total night $459. This is unrealistic for most families. We are the hugest fans and have NHL ticket, allowing only the away games.
In hopes of a resolution for a team of exceptional young athletes …
— Roxanne Tegl, Windsor
Yes, fans certainly can’t make up for the TV dispute by attending most games. Too pricey!
The top-ranked University of Denver hockey team is going to be a fun group to watch this season. Do you like its chances at winning another national championship?
— Jeff, Englewood
Jeff, I cut my teeth in hockey reporting with the Pios. Some of the best professional years of my life. But I don’t know much about them this season — although they’re 6-0 and ranked No. 1 nationally.
The NHL Stadium Series at Air Force is going to be here before we know it. What have you heard from the players about this outdoor game? It is sure to be a fun event in February.
— Dominic, Golden
It’s going to be a fantastic event, Dominic. I was at the presser a couple week ago with the commish and the team GMs. I love how Falcon Stadium is etched into a mountain. … The entire Air Force Academy is a beautiful place to be.
Denver Post sports writer Mike Chambers responds to questions in the Avs Mailbag every other week during the regular season.
Pose an Avalanche- or NHL-related question for the Avs Mailbag.