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Opposing Fans at Ball Arena Make Game More Competitive

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As an Original Six team, the New York Rangers have a vast fanbase worldwide who travel to see their team play, no matter where. That combined with fans who live in Colorado, Ball Arena gets packed with opposing fans when the Avalanche play the Rangers in Denver.



“It’s cool, it makes the environment more fun. They travel well, they have such a historic franchise and it’s always fun playing them,” Ross Colton said.

The Robbinsville, New Jersey native grew up a Devils fan and knows Rangers fans well and their passion for their team. Some can be on the obnoxious side bordering on offensive and violent, while others enjoy the game cheering for their team with a lot of fervor.

โ€œI always grew up a huge Devils fan, so it was always fun going to the game, especially when they played the Rangers and stuff,” Colton said. “It just feels different I guess when they score, warm-ups, when half the buildings (is in) red, white and blue. I don’t think we like to think too much about it, but I guess it just adds a little bit more of a competitive feel.”

Inside the Locker Room: Ross Colton on Luck of Surprise Goal

Everyone on the bench hears it but they tune it out and thrive on their home fans for positive energy. While excessive loud cheering and chants for the other team can be frustrating, the players, coaches and staff don’t let it get to them.

“We hear it, but it doesn’t affect us in any way on the bench, nor should it,” head coach Jared Bednar said.

It will be a competitive game, but Colorado is not expecting an easy matchup against the No. 7 team in the Metropolitan Division.

“I’m more concerned with our game, to be honest with you. They’re back to playing really good hockey here. They just beat some really good teams โ€” Vegas, most recently,” Bednar said. “They’re a very good hockey team. Eastern Conference Final last year, lots of same pieces. Again, they’ve gone through some struggles. Now they’re starting to work through it. They’re 4-1-1 in the last six.”

Gabriel Landeskog Leads Morning Skate

There was quite a turnout for the Avs’ optional morning skate. Bednar did not hit the ice and didn’t need to โ€” the captain led the charge. Gabriel Landeskog skated with his team, and from what the media has seen, his best since his knee surgery.

There was a lively buzz of chatter, encouragement, and laughter coming from the group skating with Landeskog โ€” a group that included Mackenzie Blackwood and Scott Wedgewood.

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