Deen’s Daily: Avs’ Maturing Core Group; Chicago Embarrassed; Protection for Gibson

The Avalanche are sitting atop the NHL, and head coach Jared Bednar knows part of the reason why. Also, the Blackhawks got badly embarrassed, and the Red Wings are protecting their prized offseason acquisition.

All that and more on this edition of Deen’s Daily — November 22.

Colorado Hockey Now

The Avs are back in action tonight against the Nashville Predators as they prepare for yet another weekend road trip that includes two games in two nights.

Heading into this one, Bednar’s club has won seven straight. They also only have one regulation loss and are the early Stanley Cup favorites.

Why are things going so well? Maturity. The leadership group is leading the way, and it’s making a difference.

READ MORE: 10 Observations: One Regulation Loss in 20 Games? You Can Thank the Leadership (+)

Around The NHL

Chicago Hockey Now: It hasn’t been a great two days for Connor Bedard and the Blackhawks. Their terrible loss on Friday might be their most embarrassing performance in quite some time.

Detroit Hockey Now: John Gibson is not having a good time in Detroit. And the Red Wings are doing everything they can to protect him. Will it help?

Philly Hockey Now: Rick Tocchet is still trying to figure out the defense, and now he’s trying new pairings.

Pittsburgh Hockey Now: The Swedish hangover was alive and well for the Pens, going up against a rock solid Swedish goaltender.