Having lost two consecutive games, the Colorado Avalanche knew this matchup with the Edmonton Oilers would be key. After falling behind early in the first period courtesy of a goal from Smid Ladislav, the Avalanche responded in impressive fashion, tying the game less than two minutes later thanks to the third goal of the season by Jay McClement.
The Oilers tested Semyon Varlamov throughout the opening period, attempting 14 shots. However, Varlamov was up to the test, making 13 saves. RW Ales Hemsky has been particularly aggressive for Edmonton, firing off three shots-on-goal.
Colorado generated numerous opportunities in the opening period, firing 11 shots at Edmonton goalie Devan Dubnyk. RW Chuck Kobasew had three shots-on-goal in the first 20 minutes and also earned an assist on the goal by McClement.
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