If you believe in deserving what you earn, then you likely agree that the Colorado Avalanche rightfully earned the two points on Tuesday night.
Throughout the game, the home team consistently outperformed the New York Islanders in chances, shots, and overall speed. However, in the realm of NHL, the significance of goaltending meant it took a bit longer for them to secure the victory.
Post-game, both Nathan MacKinnon and head coach Jared Bednar praised the exceptional performance of Valeri Nichushkin, referring to him as a “beast.” Meanwhile, Jonathan Drouin is on a hot streak, and he shared insights into his current form.
Jared Bednar, Avalanche Head Coach, on Valeri Nichushkin:
“He was outstanding tonight. Our key players all delivered. He’s establishing a presence in front of the net. We aimed to replicate the third period from the previous game, focusing on shooting the puck and getting multiple players to the net for screens, tips, rebounds, etc. Val is the first to go there, and he was rewarded twice tonight. Even drawing the penalty at the end of the game, he’s driving his legs and taking it into seams.”
Bednar on the team’s performance:
“I liked our team’s play. They capitalized on their chances, and we had difficulty converting ours, especially in the first period. We believed that if we continued playing the same way, addressing a couple of defensive issues, we would give ourselves a chance. The guys played hard and disciplined.”
Bednar on Sam Girard’s impact:
“He contributes. Another solid puck-mover playing in all situations for us. Having another veteran back there to help break us out and move in the right direction definitely helps.”
Bednar on the decision not to pull Alexandar Georgiev after three goals on nine shots:
“I thought he improved as the game went on. A tough start, but we’ve left him in those situations before when we needed a win, and he’s come up big for us. I contemplated it but decided to leave him in tonight to battle for us.”
Bednar on whether he considers Drouin part of the “big guys” now:
“He is. He’s earned trust by playing the game the right way, with and without the puck. Tonight, watch him in the neutral zone face-offs, jumping through to pressure their ‘D,’ gaining two pucks, and suddenly, we’re in an offensive zone play. He’s checking the puck back, hounding it on the track, and backchecking. He’s doing all the right things away from the puck, so I trust him in all types of situations, up and down. He’s playing well and contributing a lot for us right now.”
