The Colorado Avalanche face critical lineup decisions as Valeri Nichushkin is set to return, alongside potential returns for Jonathan Drouin and Miles Wood. This necessitates the removal of three forwards from the active roster, raising questions about the futures of rookies Ivan Ivan and Nikolai Kovalenko.

Both rookies have performed well, contributing to the team's success, and have shown promise in their roles. Coach Jared Bednar acknowledged their solid play but emphasized the need for consistency. The final decisions will hinge on the team's power play and penalty kill setups.

Arturri Lehkonen made a significant impact in his season debut, scoring the pivotal power play goal that helped the Colorado Avalanche secure a 6-3 victory over the Seattle Kraken. Nathan MacKinnon showcased his playmaking skills with five assists, while Mikko Rantanen contributed two goals, ending the Avalanche's three-game losing streak.

Despite a strong performance, star defenseman Cale Makar faced challenges due to an apparent injury, limiting his ice time. The Kraken's efforts included goals from Jared McCann, Jaden Schwartz, and Brandon Montour.

Nathan MacKinnon shone with a five-point performance, leading the Colorado Avalanche to a 6-3 victory over the Seattle Kraken, snapping a three-game losing streak. Despite the win, the Avalanche's injury woes deepened as Cale Makar left the game early due to injury.

MacKinnon's assists helped set the tone, contributing to both first-period goals. Rookie Ivan Ivan also made an impact, scoring his third goal of the season. The Avalanche's power play continued to excel, with key contributions from MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen.

Calum Ritchie's initial stint with the Colorado Avalanche has concluded, as the team has returned him to the Oshawa Generals in the Ontario Hockey League. Drafted in the first round of 2023, Ritchie scored one goal in seven games but struggled with consistency at the NHL level.

Due to age restrictions, Ritchie could not play in the AHL this season. Despite showing potential, he faced challenges adapting to the NHL's pace. The Avalanche have recalled Chris Wagner to fill his spot in the lineup for their upcoming game.

The Colorado Avalanche have placed forward Jonathan Drouin on injured reserve due to an upper-body injury sustained in their season opener against the Vegas Golden Knights. Drouin, a former third overall pick, has accumulated 337 points in his NHL career.

To fill the roster spot, the Avalanche have called up Chris Wagner from the Colorado Eagles. Wagner, a seasoned veteran, has played two games this season and brings a wealth of experience from his time with multiple NHL teams.