An undefeated road trip to start the season is quickly becoming overshadowed by the Colorado Avalanche's apparent Achilles Heel; scoring goals at home. The disparity is shocking.
Seven road games, 27 goals scored. That's an average of 3.86 goals per game on the road, an excellent number.
Three home games, two goals scored. Furthermore, both goals have been scored by defensemen off deflections. The Avalanche forwards have yet to score a goal at home.
With two straight divisional losses, the Avalanche are desperate for a win. Mike Chambers of The Denver Post is reporting that Coach Joe Sacco has changed up the offensive lines for this game, with T.J. Galiardi moving to Paul Stastny's line. David Jones and Joakim Lindstrom have moved to a line centered by Matt Duchene.
The Los Angeles Kings are a tough opponent to bet against this season. After shocking the hockey world this summer by trading for Mike Richards and signing Simon Gagne in free agency, the Kings are a legitimate Cup favorite this season. Their top two lines are filled with elite talent, they have Drew Doughty and Jack Johnson anchoring their blue line, and Jonathan Quick has been the best goalie in the league this season.
Earlier this month, Quick was the first NHL goalie with three consecutive shutout victories since Chris Mason in 2008. With his 1.34 GAA, Quick is a favorite for NHL Player of the Month. He also has an excellent history against Colorado, boasting a 7-0 record in eight starts.
Puck drops at 6:00 p.m. MDT.
For more coverage, visit our Avalanche blog Mile High Hockey or our Kings blog Jewels From The Crown.