2009-2010 record: 43-30-9 (95 points)
Lost to San Jose 4-2 in the first round
Captain: Adam Foote
Alternate Captains: Milan Hejduk, Paul Stastny
3 Players to watch: For all of the talk about the youth movement in Colorado, the Avs would not have even thought about the playoffs without goalie Craig Anderson. Sure, he was overplayed down the stretch (which explains the 2.64 GAA), but there was no player more important to the team than him. Given that he's in his walk year, he will be more motivated than last year, which is saying a lot, considering his stellar play. Since signing the big contract prior to the 2008-2009 season, Paul Stastny has fallen short of expectations. If he can return to the 30 goal levels that he's used to, then the Avs and the kids on the team will be better for it. Last year, it was all about Matt Duchene and Ryan O'Reilly, but one name to look for is second year player Brandon Yip. Health is an issue with him, but when healthy, he can contribute 25 goals.
Things to look for: The youth movement plan got accelerated by a year because the Avs made the playoffs and nearly pulled off the upset against the Sharks before losing in six. There is no question that the current Avs have learned what it takes to win. However, for every good, there is that possiblity of a drop off, particularly from Duchene and O'Reilly. Blue line age is also an issue, one that is expected to be resolved in the near future with the likes of Kevin Shattenkirk, Cameron Gaunce, and Colby Cohen eventually replacing the likes of Adam Foote and Scott Hannan. As it was last year, the goaltending is going to be important for the Avs to be competitive and if they hope to win a playoff spot. If Anderson is out for any extended period of time, the depth behind him is woefully thin, as Peter Budaj is not starter material.
Prediction: 9th in West
Song: Edguy-Mysteria
No one is sure where the Avs will go this season, but there will be no shortage of excitement from the team. Year two is as much of a question mark for the team as it was last year, only with more expectations.
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