Avalanche Wrap-Up: Strong Start, Toews Extended, Francouz Mystery

The Colorado Avalanche kicked off their season on the road last week, and CHN was there for the opener. No, I didn’t get to meet Will Ferrell, and I’m still upset about that, but it was a fun game to cover.

Off the ice, Devon Toews got paid, the team snagged a goalie off waivers, and it doesn’t sound like Pavel Francouz will be back anytime soon.

Here’s a look back at what you might have missed the previous week at CHN, and a peak at what’s coming.

Monday

The Avalanche claimed Ivan Prosvetov on waivers from the Arizona Coyotes, improving their depth in net.

Tuesday

Jonathan Drouin always saw the potential in Artturi Lehkonen in Montreal.

Colorado acquired defenseman Caleb Jones from Carolina, improving their depth on defense.

While they claimed a goalie, Justus Annunen did enough to start the season as the backup.

Wednesday

I made some quick predictions on each Avalanche player just before the season got started.

Colorado convinced Joel Kiviranta and Peter Holland to stick around with the Eagles.

Bowen Byram is focused on things he can control on a daily basis. (+)

In LA, Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen led the way offensively in their season opening win.

In the locker room, I talked to Miles Wood, who had a big night in his debut.

Thursday

The penalty kill shined in the opener against LA.

I had hinted at it before but Maros Jedlicka is expected to miss months after having surgery.

In the return of the Turning Point, Ross Colton and others stood out in their first PK action with the Avalanche. (+)

Friday

Devon Toews is sticking around after signing a massive $50 million deal with the Avalanche.

GM Chris MacFarland gave an update on Pavel Francouz, and it doesn’t sound good.

Saturday

Why the Devon Toews extension may age a lot better than you think

It took 49 shots, but the Avalanche finally solved Mackenzie Blackwood, beating the San Jose Sharks in a shootout.

Sunday

Having a capable fourth line goes a long way.

Ryan Johansen has no points yet, but his ability to win a face-off played a big role in the Avalanche tying San Jose. (+)

A Look Ahead to Next Week

• Home opener against Connor Bedard
• First game against Seattle since playoffs
• Coverage throughout the week