Full Breakdown
Colorado Avalanche Prepare for Regular Season Finale Against Seattle Kraken
4/17/2026, 1:05:34 AM
Key Details of the Matchup
The Colorado Avalanche (54-16-11) are set to conclude their regular season with a home game against the Seattle Kraken (34-36-11) on April 16, 2026. The puck drop is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. MT and will be broadcast nationally on ESPN. As the Avalanche have already secured the Presidents' Trophy for the best record in the league, they are opting to rest several key players, including Nathan MacKinnon and Martin Necas, who will not participate in the game. Team captain Gabe Landeskog is also expected to sit out.
Roster Adjustments and Injuries
To fill the gaps in the lineup, the Avalanche have called up Jason Polin and Alex Barre-Boulet from the American Hockey League. The team is also managing injuries to Nazem Kadri and Josh Manson, both of whom are sidelined with upper-body injuries but are anticipated to return for the playoffs. Head coach Jared Bednar confirmed that Scott Wedgewood will start in goal, marking his 43rd appearance of the season. Wedgewood has achieved a record of 30 wins, 6 losses, and 6 overtime losses, leading the league with a .920 save percentage and a 2.10 goals-against average.
Historical Context and Franchise Records
The Avalanche are on the verge of setting a franchise record for the most points in a single season. If they secure at least one point against the Kraken, they will finish with 119 points, surpassing their previous total from the 2021-22 season and edging out the 2000-01 team, which had 118 points. Notably, both of those teams went on to win the Stanley Cup. Additionally, the Avalanche aim to avoid a regulation loss, which would mark the first time in franchise history that they have fewer than 10 regulation losses both at home and on the road in a full season.
Coach's Return and Playoff Outlook
Jared Bednar, who missed the previous two games due to facial injuries sustained from a puck, will return to coach the team in this finale. He expressed optimism about the team's health heading into the playoffs, stating, “I expect our whole roster to be options for Game 1 of the playoffs.” The Avalanche's first playoff game is scheduled for Sunday, with the opponent and time to be determined after the conclusion of the NHL's regular season.
Official Statements & Responses
Head coach Jared Bednar remarked on the importance of the game, noting that while the matchup against Seattle is largely academic, it presents an opportunity to solidify the team's historical performance this season. He emphasized the readiness of the roster for the upcoming postseason.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I expect our whole roster to be options for Game 1 of the playoffs,” — Jared Bednar, Head Coach
- “Get your hands out of your pockets is probably the only chance you have.” — Jared Bednar, joking about his injury
As the Avalanche prepare for their final regular season game, they are not only looking to secure a historic finish but also to set the stage for a strong playoff run.
