Deen’s Daily: Avalanche’s Lethal Power Play; Panthers Have Added Motivation to Win

The Avalanche practiced their power play for the first time and the early returns were great. Also, the Panthers suddenly have added motivation to three-peat as Stanley Cup champions.

All that and more on this edition of Deen’s Daily — September 24.

Colorado Hockey Now

The Avalanche’s skate on Monday felt more like a long practice rather than training camp.

They separated the two groups into the veterans and AHL squad, and the line combinations for opening night are already starting to take shape.

Also, the team practiced its power play for the first time under Dave Hakstol’s control, and it’s crazy to see just how much depth this team has. Over the past three years, the Avs have sometimes struggled to ice five strong players on their top unit.

Now? They have 10 solid skaters and an eleventh that was alternating in every other shift. Depth is key. They have it.

Read more about the PP and my other thoughts from practice.

READ MORE: Avalanche Practice: Blackwood Takes Shots, PP Drills Begin

In case you missed it.

READ MORE: 10 Observations From the Avalanche’s Preseason Opener

Around The NHL

Pittsburgh Hockey Now: Pens camp is getting fun, writes Dan Kingerski.

Philly Hockey Now: Nikita Grebenkin was part of the Scott Laughton trade with Toronto. And he’s impressing in his first camp in Philly.

New Jersey Hockey Now: Where is Connor Brown building chemistry in a stacked Devils forward group?

Detroit Hockey Now: Andrew Copp has had enough of missing the playoffs.

San Jose Hockey Now: Ryan Reaves knows his role in San Jose.

Florida Hockey Now: The Panthers have added motivation to win a third straight championship thanks to one of their rivals.