It could be another iffy season for the Avs. On one hand, there's a lot of potential, some key components are returning, and they have some fresh faces. On the other hand...it could all fall apart. Very quickly
The biggest question mark, and it's a mark that has been looming over the Avs like the ghost of Patrick Roy, is GOALTENDING. GOALTENDING. GOALTENDING. With Jose Theodore abandoning ship after obtaining a case of Ovie-fever, we're back to square one: Peter Budaj. Don't get me wrong, Budaj has saved Av-butt multiple times, but he's never proven himself as a bona-fide starting goalie. Some would argue he's never truly gotten the chance. Well, here it is, because he's pretty much the lone man at the position. The Avs settled not for sloppy seconds, not even even for sloppy thirds, and a case could be argued for sloppy fourths in obtaining Andrew Raycroft from the free agent pool. The former rookie of the year is in a downward spiral after his stint in Toronto (of course, who WOULDN'T be in a downward spiral on a team like that?). Here's hoping he, like Jose Theodore, find new life in Colorado. It's a best of times/worst of times scenario for the Avs in net: If Budaj proves himself to be the starter he has the potential to be, and if Raycroft rediscovers his game, they could be a potent duo. However, if neither of them do the aforementioned, it could be disaster.
The defense is looking ok. If everyone stays healthy, it could be one of the more deeper defenses. A big 5th or 6th defensemen couldn't hurt. The return of Adam Foote is key; he's an inspiration to the other blueliners with his all-for-one mentality. He puts the team before his body, as evidenced by his fantastic schnoz. His grit is contagious, and the Avs saw an instant increase in meanness from players like Scott Hannan after the arrival of Foote. Speaking of Hannan, expect him to have a rebound season after struggling through his first run with the Avs. I think he tried to take too much upon himself defensively. Expect him to calm down, especially with Foote taking some of the defensive load off. Ruslan Salei was a pleasant surprise at both ends. The team would be wise to keep him. Brett Clark is equally reliable. John-Michael Liles is super-fast with potential, here's hoping for a rebound season from him. He's been O.K., but has not been the powerplay threat they need. Leopold is the only other real regular, and I haven't been impressed. He was a liability at both ends last season, when he was healthy. I say move him.
Health is the only thing stopping the Avs forwards. Injuries saw huge chunks in the lineup last year, with almost every player from the top two lines missing significant time. If everyone can stay healthy, the offense is deadly. Paul Stastny is Mr. Everything for the Avs, and will only get better. Future team captain. The loss of Brunette will hurt a little, but a full season from Ryan Smyth should help. Let's also hope he lets his mullet grow out even more. With Svatos, Wolski, Hejduk and others, the offense will remain potent. Darcy Tucker is an interesting pickup, and like Raycroft could either be a diamond in the rough or a complete bust. Grit is also not lacking. Ian Lapperierre continues to remain an inspiration and is the ultimate team player. He'll fight anybody for any of his teammates. Him playing on a line with newcomer Darcy Tucker would be fun to watch.
The other big question mark besides goaltending is Super Joe Sakic. He had a rough season in terms of injuries, but his game is still strong. I see him returning for one more season before finishing what has been a legendary career. He has emerged as the ultimate leader, and one of the most respected men in the league. He inspires his team with his work ethic and attitude. The team would hurt without him, and I think he'll be around for one more. A huge void will be filled if he does not, as he is the only permanent captain the Avs have ever had. If he does retire, I would expect the Avs to give the "C" to a vet like Foote or Lapperierre for the season and maybe next. After that, expect Stastny to take the reins.
All in all, it could go either way for the Avs. They could be a Stanley Cup contender, or they could miss the playoffs completely. One thing is for sure: I'm getting a lot of premature gray hairs from this team.
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Hmmm, strange to note that Jagr's point production dropped significantly after these wondrous locks were shorn. And some people say it's because he lost Lemieux! Hah!
Scott Hannan: Hard-nosed defenseman... or GQ cover model? You decide. My mind's made up.
Barry Melrose: The epitome of class. The god of hockey wisdom and knowledge. Look at the suit. Look at the smile. Look at the mullet. Perfectly groomed for the ultimate combination of class and sass.
The theory of evolution does not exist... just a list of animals Ryan Smyth has allowed to live.
