Before a summer of uncertainty can unfold, we must put the 2023-24 Colorado Avalanche season to rest. After getting eliminated in six games in a tough second-round meeting with the Dallas Stars here are our thoughts as we reflect on what transpired.
After getting knocked out in the second round, was this season a disappointment?
Evan: Yes, I believe the season is a disappointment overall. Any time you lose out on having a chance to win the Stanley Cup, it stinks. But when you’re a Cup contender and make several moves to reflect as such, it makes it that much worse. The “all-in” mantra fell short and ultimately jeopardized the future slightly more than before. Of course, outside scenarios played their part as well, but overall it is a bit disappointing to be knocked out in the second round and not make it at least to the Western Conference Final.
Ezra: Yeah. Coming into the playoffs, I said it wasn’t about reaching a certain round for me; it was about playing at their peak, and I stand by that. But can we say that this second-round loss to Dallas was peak Avalanche? I don’t think so. Obviously, Val Nichushkin’s absence is a factor in that—and disappointing in its own right—but the continued inability of the Avalanche to find depth guys who can step up is a big issue.
Jackie: I have believed all along that a second-round finish is just about what this team deserved, and the trade deadline did not make a material difference in that. So it’s disappointing that the team couldn’t go further, but I don’t feel like this team disappointed based on my expectations and evaluation of the roster. Just for proof of that, here’s my submitted bracket before the playoffs began.
Adrian: Last season, the Avalanche were eliminated in the first round, but this year, it feels more like a disappointment. I think it’s because of Colorado’s potential heading into round two. They had Val Nichushkin leading the NHL in playoff scoring and seemed to be on another mission for a Cup. Those hopes felt all but lifeless after his untimely and surprise departure from the lineup. It shouldn’t be an excuse for this squad again, however. They had more than enough talent to force a Game 7 but made costly mistakes along the way against Dallas. The Stars were built up as a team that forces their opposition to beat themselves. Unfortunately, that reputation was realized against the…
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