Avalanche Making Run At Playoffs

You're Dialed In with JQ

Dear Readers,

For those of you that doubted me, all I have to say is.....I told ya so.


The Colorado Avalanche have put up an impressive 9-2-1 record since the end of February. Now even I'll admit that I was a little scared after a horrible loss to the Red Wings on 2/18. It really looked like we were a sunk ship. Then the trade deadline came along and we added some much needed depth, talent, and heart to our team. The addition of Denver favorites Peter Forsberg and Adam Foote really boosted our team with confidence and put the "kibosh" on a sinking morale. Ruslan Salei, a defense man we picked up from the Florida Panthers, may have been one of the best trades this season. Even though it was quietly done, and over shadowed by the Brad Richardson (to Dallas) and Marian Hossa (Pittsburgh Penguins) trades, he stepped out on to the ice and gave us power size and a surprisingly good shot from the blue line.

Now the injury bug has still been biting us in the ass. Ryan Smyth and Marek Svatos were both hurt in a game against the L.A. Kings. Svatos tearing up his knee and Smyth getting checked into the half boards and suffering a concussion. Svatos is done for the season, but Smyth should be back in the line up maybe as soon as Saturday when the New Jersey Devils step back into the Pepsi Center to only have their asses handed to them once again. Other injuries to Scott "The Sheriff" Parker, Jordan Leopold, Adam Foote, and Peter Forsberg have shortened our lines a bit, but Captain Joe Sakic and the other assistant captains have really kept the team on a roll.

With 10 games left in the season, the Av's finally reclaimed their rightful spot at the top of our division. And with all the remaining games, except for the Devils on 3/15, being against division rivals every point is going to count. So if you weren't on board before, pretend you were and start cheering on my boys. The playoffs are right around the corner and I'm smelling blood in the air. Stay Dialed In

The Streak Begins

You're Dialed In with JQ

Where do I even start? Well it would be totally unlike me if I didn't mention the Avalanche. Last night we played the division leading Calgary Flames. It was especially memorable since we got to see Adam Foote back where he belongs.....in a Av's sweater. The boys played with a hop in their step that we haven't seen in the last few weeks. Even being down by a goal late in the 3rd period didn't seem to slow down the Av's much. The physical battles were won against the boards, Jose Theodore played really well again only allowing 2 goals, and our offense was alive and kicking. Finally there was heart. Finally there was purpose. Finally there was a solid win against a good team and division rival.

The only downside of the game was that it went into overtime assuring the Flames of at least 1 point. Paul Stastny once again played a stellar game and proved that he is one of our most valuable players, scoring the overtime game winner. So although we only gain 1 point on Calgary, we gained 2 on everyone else. We're climbing the ladder and very soon, possibly tonight, we'll be back in a playoff spot. For those of you that remember last year, the Av's went on one of the best late season streaks we've seen in a long time. Winning 15 of a possible 17 if memory serves me right. Only to come up short by one point and miss the playoffs for the first time in Avalanche franchise history. Well, I'm predicting it right now. With less than 20 games left, I'm going to say that the Av's win at least 14 games. How can I make such a bold prediction you ask. I'll tell you. I'm a believer. Only time will tell. So stay dialed in.

Return to Greatness Pt. 2

It's been a very exciting few days here in the Mile High City of Denver. Super Joe, Paul, and Ryan all healthy and then BOOM!!! Here comes Peter "The Great" Forsberg back to wear good 'ol number 21 for the Av's. With less than 2 hours left in the trade deadline the Colorado Avalanche once again proved why they may have one of the best management teams ever. We recently just brought back another former Avalanche, fan favorite, and all around best defense man money can buy. Put your hands together and get ready to pound the boards baby because ADAM FOOTE is back in Denver wearing #52 for us once again. The Av's of old are upon us once again and ready to kick ass and take names. Avalanche fans put your hands together, stomp your feet, and yell your damn head off because if you didn't think we were back yesterday, WE SURE THE HELL ARE BACK TODAY!!!!! The trade deadline ends at 1pm MST and Rob Blake is still on the blocks, so we'll see. I could be writing a bit more today than I had planned. GO AV'S!!!!!!!!!!