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Avs, Wings Battle to Break Slumps; Kane Makes History

1/31/2026

37 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Colorado Avalanche (35-8-9) visit the Detroit Red Wings (32-17-6) at Little Caesars Arena for 1 p.m. ET.
Both teams aim to end slumps; Colorado has dropped four of five, Detroit is on a two-game skid.
Detroit Red Wings forward Patrick Kane recently set the career points record for U.S.-born players.
The game will be broadcast on ABC, and Colorado is favored at -152.

History

Historical Context

The NHL's expansion in 1967 marked the end of the Original Six era, doubling the league's size from six to twelve teams, including the Philadelphia Flyers and Pittsburgh Penguins. This expansion aimed to enhance profitability and secure lucrative television contracts amid competition from the World Hockey Association. Today, both the Red Wings and Avalanche are struggling, reflecting the league's competitive landscape.

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Story summary

The Colorado Avalanche (35-8-9) visit the Detroit Red Wings (32-17-6) at Little Caesars Arena for 1 p.m. ET.
Both teams aim to end slumps; Colorado has dropped four of five, Detroit is on a two-game skid.
Detroit Red Wings forward Patrick Kane recently set the career points record for U.S.-born players.
The game will be broadcast on ABC, and Colorado is favored at -152.

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