The Colorado Avalanche are another team whose blue line could use an upgrade
Like the Lightning, the Colorado Avalanche are another team looking to outscore opponents amidst so-so defense and goaltending. And Colorado’s numbers aren’t too far from Tampa’s, as they are second in goals scored with 212 and 20th in goals allowed with 182.
Once again, we’re looking at a team allowing one too many shots on goal with 29.2 per game. The 2022 Stanley Cup Champions can’t look to take back their title after watching Vegas win it all last year, allowing one too many shots.
Another common denominator is that Colorado has a goaltender capable of playing at a Vezina level in Alexandar Georgiev, given his seventh-place finish for the award just a season ago. This year, Georgiev has taken a step back, and one major reason is because Colorado can’t get in front of the puck or find a way to retake possession before opponents see scoring chances emerge.
With an 0.899 save percentage and a 2.90 GAA, Georgiev is doing what he can to stop the onslaught of shots, which currently sit at 27.9 against per game when he’s in the net, slightly lower than the overall average.
Much like the case for Tampa, someone like Walker can come in and be an instant difference-maker. Not only will he block a shot or two from finding the net; he will also help drive pucks from the defensive zone, taking pressure off Georgiev.