DISQUS

DieHardAvs · 2 months ago

Andrew...first I doubt you have ever spent a dime going to see the Avs game at Pepsi, because you obviously don't know anything about hockey. Duchene is cheap dude...if you want to complain about over paid players talk about Clark, Svatos, Wolski, Hannah or even Stasny. Having two 18 year old kids on this team is refreshing and it pushes the vets too. And lets face it. to keep Duchene up is going to help the Avs boost attendence which in turn results in more revenue, which helps us rebuild this once storied hockey organization. I was a serious non-believer going into this season too; but I think the Avs have found several things they needed to compete and that in itself is remarkable after a season like last year. They have an NHL caliber goalie, a new and I think great young coach, youth, speed and veterans who see to be getting their mojo back.

So you keep watching the games on Altitude and crying about your money, I will be up against the glass at center ice at the Pepsi...and that, I thought would not happen this year.

Mike TruAvsFan · 2 months ago

I think it's dumb to argue with guys like that one who want us to anticipate Duschene struggling. It's not always about how things statistically would work out, but rather what he deserves. He has breathed new life into a team that everyone said would struggle to win 20 games this year, and they already have half of that. Why change what is working? I guess he is a half @$$ fan who is scared he will regret believing in them. I don't know, but what I do know is I'll take a losing record with 20 players of Duschene's heart than a winning record with a bunch of souless punks. Duschene, you are a joy to watch, as is O Rielly, and we love you in Colorado. Welcome, and best of luck buddy!

andy1050 · 2 months ago

"I'll take a losing record with 20 players of Duschene's heart than a winning record with a bunch of souless punks."

Well said. Before the season I was saying, "I don't care if they win a game, so long as they go out and try every night." After the second game I was saying, "I don't care if they win another game all season, as long as they play like they did in those first two." Now I'm saying, "If they just keep playing the way that they are playing, the Ws will take care of themselves."

anonymous · 2 months ago

Who the hell is this Duschene person you are talking about?

mrhockeyluke · 2 months ago

Did you know that Joe Thornton in his rookie year ,1997-1998, scored 3 goals, 4 assists for 7 points, and was -6 in 55 games played? My point being that just because Duchene isn't on pace for 120 points doesn't mean he has no future or he's "ruined". It just takes a while to adjust to the speed of the NHL. I mean Duchene went from skating against a bunch of KIDS in the OHL to skating against grown men, hockey veterans. Soon he will adjust, he will score more and all will be well. Go Avalanche!! and Go Duchene!!

Matt Atencio · 2 months ago

All in all the kid is a very nice kid, I am happy for him and the Colorado Avalanche. He deserves to be here, I mean he was drafted 3rd overall and the last time I checked you had to be pretty darn good to get drafted that high?!?!?( Jonathan Toews, Jack Johnson, Jay Bouwmeester, ring a bell?) I couldn't tell you why he has so many haters. I would liken it to, many people did not think that Avs were going to be good this year and they are hating on that.
Like I have said, good for Matt and the Avs! They had nothing to loose coming into this season. That is a dangerous team to play against.
I would think that that O'Reilly is going to stay as well.

Tommy · 2 months ago

Wow, great news. I have to wonder about TJ Hensick's long-term future with the team now. Not that I was a big fan of his (he has Arnason Part Deux written all over him) but I could see him being parlayed in a deal to a team that's desperate (re: Minnesota, Nashville) for some scoring.

Win or lose, I love this team right now simply because they're not laying down like last year's squad did.

dp10 · 2 months ago

I don't really understand all this negative talk.

The Avs and their young guns are completely and utterly exceeding the expectation of just about everybody at the moment. If the Avs are going to drop off their current form, well, I think it's kind of expected. I mean after the miserable last season, just about anything will be an improvement for them.

Either way, I don't think it would hurt Duchene or O'Reilly if the Avs went back into a slump. It certainly didn't hurt Sakic when he was playing for a struggling franchise for like half a decade. I think especially with respect to #9, it helps that they have a guy like Statsny, who is their top gun, even if he hasn't found his grove yet. But #26 and quite frankly #8 are the guys who the Avs should rely on. Anything the rookies can contribute, I really see it as a bonus.

Ed C · 2 months ago

Here's how "bad" Duchene is.

"He looks for real to me. He did things in the two games that I watched that you're not allowed to do unless you are Pav (Pavel Datsyuk) or Z (Henrik Zetterberg)," Babcock said.

So go on bashers, I guess you're all smarter than Mike Babcock!

Tim · 2 months ago

That's called Gamesmanship between teams. Every coach says stuff like that when asked about the opposition.

Ed C · 2 months ago

You should look up the definition of the word gamesmanship.

James · 2 months ago

So, with all that's been happening here, you just feel a need to continue the name calling from last night. Real nice.

Ed C · 2 months ago

I call 'em as I see 'em.

jfmartineau · 2 months ago

They probably never ware skate and dont know zip about hockey! I am glad he is staying with the club.
I am from Quebec City and I fell the same way i was about young Joe Sakic 20 years ago!! ( Very exited about the future of our Avs) Talk about Ryan O`Reilly! Ive been watching Cody Mcleod goal who ties the game at 3-3 last night over and over!! what a pass from O'Reilly, that was freaking nice, i think im gonna look at it 9 more time.

Justin · 2 months ago

You're an idiot. Turn your computer off.

anon · 2 months ago

Wow Justin, how incredibly witty of you to remark on the English skills of someone who is from Quebec City. Did it occur to you that this person does not speak English as a primary language? I'm guessing you are just too damn brilliant to have considered that right?

Lyn · 2 months ago

How well do you speak -- or spell -- in another language? What he said was brilliant, no matter spelling or gramatical errors. Great to hear from someone who has been following the Avs since they were the Nordiques!

Rachel Polner · 2 months ago

It's very simple, some people are just plain jealous of success. Maybe they tried to play hockey and failed miserably, or maybe they just missed out on an NHL career. In any case, these people have to be ignored. I nearly made myself ill I got so worked up with some of the comments people were making on the boards 2-3 years ago and it just isn't worth it. Just know Adrian, there are some of us that really enjoy and appreciate your blogs and try ignore the morons. We all know who they are and if they are ignored, hopefully they will disappear.

skidd14 · 2 months ago

Rachel,Although I agree with you 100%,unfortunatly if the morons disepear,more will take their place.
In a way it keeps us on our toes if anything else,and gives us something to talk about but you are right,there are morons out there,Adrian is doing a good job.

Peterman · 2 months ago

Great news! i've really been surprised by OReilly. He's got a great two-way game and he's making plays. My only worry is he is a little slow.. but I see him staying as well.

As for this blog... let the naysayers flap their gums. Some people just can't believe in something even when its right in front of their eyes.

americanario · 2 months ago

It's OK for O'Reilly to be a little slow. He's the third line center. He's still very smart and gets himself in the right spots. He's not going to be playing against the other teams top lines.

gagnefan924 · 2 months ago

26stastny26 · 2 months ago

Pretty much a no-brainer and expected but good for him. And I would think that the Avs should obviously keep their number one penalty killer O'Reilly too!

Kronke Is The Devil · 2 months ago

Don't get too excited. Both of these guys will be back with their junior teams by Christmas. All the Avs are hoping for is for people to think they will be here all season so that folks will buy season tickets. It's a Kronke Marketing Ploy.

andy1050 · 2 months ago

Dang it. I liked this by accident and there's no remove button.

KITD--Thank goodness you are here to share with us all the insight gained by your late-night crystal ball gazing.

Joel · 2 months ago

Thank god. I can't imagine why they wouldn't keep both of em...Duchene has been fun to watch and clearly has the talent to stay up in the NHL even as an 18 year old.

Aron · 2 months ago

AD, there's no accounting for knuckleheads out there. They are everywhere and an unmoderated comment board like this is an ideal place for them to seek attention. They don't deserve your (or anyone's) attention.

andy1050 · 2 months ago

I'm appalled that you people are looking at this team and seeing something to complain about. They are exceeding expectations and they are _winning._

The team is excited, the power play rocks, the penalty kill has been doing great, there's lots of speed up front, Anderson has been a joy. And they are _winning,_ even against all of the teams that were supposed to stomp the Avs this year.

You people are the biggest glass-half-empty types I've ever seen. You must be fun to hang out with at parties.

Are there problems? Of course there are. Injuries are starting to pile up again. The defense needs work on keeping their positions and not cheating over to help the other side. The chemistry hasn't completely gelled among some of the forwards. Anderson seems a little slow to get back to his net once he's pulled out of position.

But how the heck can you complain about what you've seen so far?

avs_sweden · 2 months ago

I love it! Stastny, Duchene and O’Reilly...that`s what I call a bright future!

jfmartineau · 2 months ago

I can smell a lots of Red wings fan in here, go back to your peewee team and your empty Joe louis arena and try to find out who is your prospects euh there is none!!
And who cares about contract BS, thats for the front office not you peoples. Who are you to say this and that and if and but!!!

DieHardAvs · 2 months ago

Don't spend it all in one place boys! Congratulations!

Ramon · 2 months ago

Good decision!

Duchene is a threat for the opposite team every time he is on the ice. Speed AND skill is always useful. I hope Ryan O’Reilly stays too. He is also very impressive and a friend of Duchene. And to have good friends around can be a significant morale-booster especially for such young players.

pascalp · 2 months ago

I can't understand either why people are so hard on Duchene, maybe it's the fact that Avs fans are not used to draft that high and thought Duchene should perform like a Crosby from day one.
This is absolutely ridiculous, the kid is only 18 years old and it's obvious that coming into the NHL straight from the draft he will need time to raise his game and will not have 15 points in 8 games starting this season.
5 points in 8 games and a good solid play 5v5, on the powerplay and on the penalty kill, getting chances from day one against tough opponents does not look to me like a sub par performance.
He looks absolutely great to me, he's living up to all expectations and will continue to raise his game all through the year at the NHL level, the kid is far too good to play in juniors.
His place is definitely here with the big team, same with O'Reilly. Both are looking like anything but 18 years old kids

al · 2 months ago

Yeah but again, he's the team's leading goal scorer, and tied with the Duke for points. What more are they looking for? A hat trick a game?

Aaron Musick · 2 months ago

I had the opportunity during training camp to actually meet Matt Duchene and just talking to him he's the real deal. He speaks with humility but also confidence and it translates onto the ice. He's just as willing to come back and play defense as he is to go down and put on offensive pressure. He's been adjusting to the game but pretty soon he'll get it. One thing is true in this game: if you work hard, you will play a long time and Duchene works incredibly hard. With his speed, hands and dedication, he'll put up serious numbers.

Curt · 2 months ago

Really. Serious numbers. Like, the 11 goals that he's on pace for? Please explain how 11 goals is a serious number.

DUR · 2 months ago

Yes Curt, since he is on pace for 11 goals, there is no way he will get anymore than that. Jonathan Toews is on the same pace, so he probably sucks now. Chris Drury too, so he sucks. Yep, there is no way that anyone who is on pace for such a low amount will ever adjust or see anymore goals this season. They should all just quit now since they suck so bad.

Name · 2 months ago

Drury does suck, other points well taken

Dave's A Killer · 2 months ago

Come on Curt! On pace? Hockey is not baseball and you can't make statistical predictions like that. It's complete bull. The leafs are on "pace" to win 0 games. will that happen? probably not. Someone who scores in the first game of the season is "on pace" as of that game to score 82. So is Tucker going to do that? How about Wolski? It'd be great, but it's unlikely. WATCH HIM PLAY. He dominates veterans, he kills penalties and plays THE FRONT OF THE FEAKIN NET on the PP. He has heart and soul and talent to boot. Did you see that goal against detroit? That was a zinger of a wrist shot a la Joe Sakic. If nothing eles, he gives us something to believe in. If you can't handle that, then take your purse and go watch basketball.

Megan · 2 months ago

Wow. Seeing as there are 74 more games to play in the season, and he's getting the chances, how do you honestly figure that 11 goals will be his final season total? How do you know that he won't break out and go on a 20 game goal scoring streak?

You don't. None of us do. But I'm quite willing to sit back and watch the show because he works his rear off on both ends of the ice and is getting the chances. It could also be that he's realizing that the goalies at the NHL level are a HECK of a lot better than they are in the OHL, and that comes with experience.

He's a rookie. He will get there. 8 games does not a career make. And I, for one, am looking forward to following Matt's career for many seasons to come.

JR55 · 2 months ago

Adrian,

you're doing a great job with this blog. us fans appreciate it. the internet, for all its positive aspects, is required to have a downside. and that downside is the people who feel the uncontrollable urge to say something ridiculous and negative from the safety of their computer. i don't know what motivates them (other than mental illness, not getting it from the old lady) but i hope you keep doing what you do. if we all ignore the trolls, it will be like they were never there.
JR

Donny C. · 2 months ago

I love watching both of these kids play so this is fantastic news. Hopefully the rest of the team can get in gear soon (Stastny, Wolski) and we might stop getting dominated so badly on shot count.

Name · 2 months ago

Woo Hoo!

al · 2 months ago

Awesome!

I imagine O'Reilly is safe too, considering his play of late.

gagnefan924 · 2 months ago

Hey dater,

New poster but I read your blog...O'Reilly is staying also. http://www.northpeel.com/news/article/78596

Also do you think you could find out why Wolski keeps getting benched? Or write a story
about it? Thanks.

From the Point · 2 months ago

Dater...did you know after that game? And you had to keep it quiet but the Brampton news blew the surprise?

adriandater · 2 months ago

I was pretty sure I knew, but didn't write it because it wasn't 100 percent. It was a foregone conclusion pretty much though eh? I mean, what was the Avs' backup plan to replace their second-line center?

From the Point · 2 months ago

Tyler Arnason? hehehe

Hammer · 2 months ago

Just checked out Chuck's stats through 5 games in Hartford. A minus 4, 1 assist for 1 point. A 30 year old "seasoned" NHL veteran with those stats. Whatever the Rangers are paying him is too much.

Do those of you who think Duchene should go down to juniors think that sending Arny to the AHL will make him a better NHL player? I'd also like to know how one thinks that a player will be a better long-term player when put up against lower level players in the minors or juniors?

It seems that times are a-changing with youth and the NHL. Better learn to live with it.

davidkrabs · 2 months ago

I almost flagged that as innapropraite ;)

adriandater · 2 months ago

Thanks for the link. I don't know for sure at the moment that O'Reilly is officially saying, and that story is a little sketchy on details about him, but I can't imagine the Avs sending him back.

gagnefan924 · 2 months ago

Yea Dater their isnt much this team can do without Duchene and O'Reilly...Isnt official but its good enough. Hey when you have the chance could you do an interview on Wolski about him getting benched? Alot of Avs fans are wondering whats up. Thanks! Sorry about the blank post still trying to figure this register thing out lol.

Mike · 2 months ago

This is a HUGE mistake. Duchene is not NHL ready. Just because he finally scored a goal in his eighth game says nothing. This is all about marketing strategy. The Avalanche are deathly afraid of attendance. That's all this is. His development is going to suffer greatly. How dense can the front office be?

ryan b · 2 months ago

Jonathan Toews just scored his first goal eight games into the season as well. It's not a testament to how he's gonna play the rest of the season. Sometimes an individual can't catch a break. There's a lot of season left and he can only benefit from here on out.

avalanchejeff · 2 months ago

I believe Getzlaf still hasn't gotten his first goal either.

Megan · 2 months ago

He's on my fantasy team and you are correct. He has not. But the season is still young.

Ryan · 2 months ago

How will his development suffer? He's the undisputed 2nd line center, and he's on the top PP line. To me, that sounds like a prime spot to be in while he adjusts to the NHL. He's not the #1 center and he doesn't have to shoulder the pressure that comes with being the top dog. Is it a better option to send him back to Brampton to dominate with ease?

avalanchejeff · 2 months ago

I think Duchene has been one of the best Avs player this year. He is one of the few that has the ability to create opportunity by himself, and he usually gives himself a great scoring opportunity at least twice a game. The kid is ready.

Johnny · 2 months ago

His development will suffer because there isn't enough talent on the Avs roster to allow him to succeed. His development will also suffer because the home crowd now will expect him to score all the time. He is the 1st line center. Paul Stastny is not, even though the Avs would have you believe that.

Pressure kills careers.

beachnsnowgirl · 2 months ago

yeah, Ovie, Crosby, Kane, Doughty...they're really on their way down, careers shot. Seriously, Johnny, there are a lot of people out there that actually thrive under pressure like this. Clearly, Duchene does. He seems so at home on the ice and in front of the cameras. He will do fine.

Name · 2 months ago

So what would you rather do? Send him back so he can play the second line in Brampton again? He'll learn a whole lot more there.

Johnny · 2 months ago

No, I'd send him back to play on the first line in Brampton.

Ann · 2 months ago

Cody Hodgson was sent back to Brampton by the Canucks. He will be the first line center so Matt would end up being the second line center again. He will learn more by staying with the Avalanche this year. He is young and will probably make some mistakes but that is how we learn things. BTW, Paul Stastny didn't score until his 8th game either.

Curt · 2 months ago

And Stastny hasn't lived up to expectations either. Duchene is going to be an epic failure.

Matt Jordan · 2 months ago

Then taking Johny's thought process...then we should just cut Stastny right this second...

Name · 2 months ago

Really. Stastny has lived up to and surpassed any expectations he could have had. If you don't remember he was the AV's 2nd, 2nd round draft pick behind Stoa.

Erick · 2 months ago

To that other guy. Yeah a PPG player like Paul Stastny going in the second round has far surpassed his expectations. 200 points in 200 games

Tom · 2 months ago

Are you even an Avalance fan? Stastny is still a point a game producer over his career. What expectations would you have him live up to? As far as Duchene, he has had scoring opportunities in every game so far this season. Have some patience, he's got great speed and will be a great player.

Dario · 2 months ago

Um, Hodgson? Have you even seen Duchene play?

Dave's A Killer · 2 months ago

I don't think you're actually watching these games. He's faster and better with that stick than his opponents, he's solid defensively (remeber his PK shift that got him on Coache's Corner) and he (and O'Reilly) is clutch. That goal agianst the Wings (and O'reilly's 2 assists) was key to getting to overtime and shootout and winning. He's talent, energy and star power, everything that we need for the team and he needs to be an NHLer.

QED.

Ramon · 2 months ago

Nonsens! Duchene with his 18 years is better than 75% of all active NHL players, ergo - NHL!!!!

Slapshot · 2 months ago

What is your proof that it's a mistake if he stays on the team? And you're smarter than the Avs management in what way? My opinion is you don't know jack squat what you're talking about...

Rachel Polner · 2 months ago

WEll mike we sent Wooly down before and that's really turned out well. Who's to say who's NHL ready and who isn't. I think he's as ready as he ever will be since he's not a defensive liability at all and he has points in a number of games.

Johnny · 2 months ago

Agreed. I like Duchene fine, but he would have benefited from another year in Brampton. He's being hurried along due to the economy and ownership's fear of empty seats at the Can. I think we're going to see Duchene struggle a lot this year and I would not be surprised to see him sent down within the next 20 games.

beachnsnowgirl · 2 months ago

Actually, according to statistics, Duchene wouldn't gain much from being sent back down. He's been a MAJOR part of how well the Avs are doing lately. This is the right move and, frankly, the only choice they could have made. To do otherwise would have been standings suicide. If you need any more proof, watch some interviews with the vets when they talk about him (and O'Reilly for that matter). They clearly aren't just giving lip service. You can hear the excitement and awe even in their voices.

Derek B · 2 months ago

It should be noted that he cannot be sent down to juniors once he plays in his 10th NHL game. Not sure if he would need to clear waivers to be sent down to the AHL, if he could even be sent down there at all. I am not worried about his staying power. This kid is legit!

Megan · 2 months ago

Derek, he can be sent back at any time this season. That 10 game mark is merely a benchmark for the official start of his professional career and is used for contract purposes. It basically means that if he plays more than 10 NHL games this season, he's one season closer to free agency.

I believe AD has mentioned that at various points in his blog, and Haynes and McNab have mentioned it on Altitude broadcasts as well.

mpcsu · 2 months ago

are you kidding me? The guy has produced chances every game, he is strong on the puck, and is far and away better than any free agent bum that we could put in his spot. Time in the minors isn't always a good thing you know, the Avs have wasted a lot of prospects by sending them down to the minors where they get hurt or lose their game. What good would it do to have him go down, get hurt, and be lost to us for a year?

As far as his point production, are you expecting 50+ goals? If so, your production expectations are as off-base as your idea about the value of the minors. Look at Steve Stamkos last year, he was 18 and he stayed up all season, his numbers were 23 G 23 A that is likely where Duchene will end up.

I'm not trying to be a jerk, but think back to some of the Avs other hyped prospects. Vaclav Nedorost, Jared Aulin, Michael Kulashev these are all guys that were great going into the minors and they lost their games down there.

adriandater · 2 months ago

Basically, the situation with Wolski is: he gets in coaches' doghouses now and then. Not strong enough on the puck sometimes, not messy enough in front of the net

jabshot · 2 months ago

Whoa this board is like deja vous. Now if we will only get Duce a big scoring LW we will really be in business.

James · 2 months ago

"why Duchene has such a vocal couple of haters?"

Honestly, the love for this kid was kind of overwhelming me. For example, you know people are obsessed when they're all "oh Duchene is SICK at taking faceoffs".

The only negative press I've read is people who are worried about "ruining" him by rushing him.

davidkrabs · 2 months ago

Who said he was sick at faceoffs? He's been poor at faceoffs, but he's done well with most everything else. While I like the kid a lot, and I do believe he belongs in the NHL, I'm not one of those people who ignores flaws. I think the problem is that there are too many people on the opposite extremes. Complete lovers and complete haters. He's good, probably one way will be great, but isn't great yet.

peeter · 2 months ago

AD, some people are just bad people. Especially those that get jealous easily. They're looking to bash anything and everything and may likely be very different people face-to-face.

Matt · 2 months ago

Couldn't be clearer that this is a financial move. Pretty much trying to sell season tickets. Great move Avs. Ruin a kids career by rushing him into the NHL.

Megan · 2 months ago

What I've learned about the business of sports is that, yes, everything is generally financially driven.

Is part of that behind the decision to keep Duchene? Possibly, but I'd be willing to bet more than anything that it's just rewarding the kid for what he does on the ice. What can he possibly gain by going back to Brampton? We all know he can play at that level. Despite where we are in the standings, it's still a rebuilding year - it's good to let him stay and make his rookie mistakes on a team that has no real expectations to live up to. I think they'll surprise a lot of people this season, but overall I don't think this is a completely financial move.

Although, what would be so bad about Avs fans having a reason to go watch a game at Pepsi Center and see him in person? He's exciting to watch, as is O'Reilly, and after a couple of seasons where there weren't a whole lot of guys to get excited about, having two new guys like Matt and Ryan is very refreshing.

cj · 2 months ago

I disagree. I would call it a hockey move. Team needs him now for money and hockey, but he also needs Avs. He isn't going to gain anything by going back. He isn't going to be the captain, he isn't going to play any better in OHL playoffs, he body is NHL ready. So what if part of motivation is a financial move? If it helps the team win, and is better for long term outlook, I don't see an issue.

Dario · 2 months ago

Are you suggesting that Duchene's skill set has something to learn in the OHL? Please explain this "ruin" concept of yours.

Mark · 2 months ago

I haven't heard anyone say anything bad about this kid but there are always small minded people around. Nothing to be concerned about. I am particularly impressed with Duchene's intelligence to go along with his obvious talent. He is straightforward and hard working. He'll just get better from here on out. What a difference a year makes. Hey Dater did you get any quotes from Mr. Hockey?

Mike TruAvsFan · 2 months ago

Hey Dater,
I'm always trying to suggest this or that, but really, if the Panthers are trying to get rid of Nathan Horton, and the Avs are just going to keep benching Wolski, can you slip a note to someone about making THAT swap? I do agree that Duschene needs to have someone on his line that, to use a basketball term, can create thier own shot. That would keep Duschene from being beat up all game doing everything on his line to create offense. I don't know if they would click, but from a shear stats prospective, Duschene/ Horton/ whoever line would be SICK!

Curt · 2 months ago

No one wants Wolski. That is the most idiotic trade idea ever conceived. And if you are going to call yourself an Avs fan, at least learn how to spell D-U-C-H-E-N-E. You'll appear less like a moron.

beachnsnowgirl · 2 months ago

Get over the spelling of his name. Seriously, what is the big deal? Misspelling a word does not a moron make. Now, pointing it out and being abusive...well, that's a different story.

al · 2 months ago

Whoops! I meant my previous comment to be a replay to Dater's reason of why Wolski ends up in the dog house...

Scott Pantall · 2 months ago

Woohoo! I'm glad we're keeping him. He's been doing everything right so far, except getting pucks past goalies. I think now that he's gotten his first goal and has been told he's staying with the Avs, he'll be less nervous and will be a better player.

carmela_avs · 2 months ago

I just hope O'Reilly stays with the team too. Both are doing great. Marketing move by the Avs? MAYBE. But let's admit it, it Duchene goes back to the juniors, who'll be in center for the 2nd line? They should both stay the whole season but coaches and teammates should not too much pressure on them. The downside to this winning so many games early in the season is that expectations have changed. When Avs won the first game of the season, people were saying that's it's only because players were inspired by the Joe Sakic ceremony.

I'm worried that having Wolski benched twice this early would have an effect on his confidence, or he'd be pissed off. On the other side, I'm glad that the coaches are doing something so that he would improve. Is benching him the right way to do it, I honestly don't know. I just hope that they are doing this because they can see that Wolski can play better.

poisonguy · 2 months ago

Mike, Johnny, Curt, James, Matt and Justin (plus all the others in other threads) is the same weenie posting under different names. So it's not a few people with a soft-on for Duchene. There's only one of them. All y'all have to do is ignore the weenie and when he get's no reaction, he'll crawl back under the rock from which he came. As long as y'all reply to him, he'll vomit up the same trash. That's what 13 year old internet weenies do.

Or, Adrian, you could have the site administrator block the IP address where all this vitriol is originating.

Anyway, I hope O'Reilly stays too. He's done everything right to deserve being kept up in the bigs (6 points in 8 games and a +5). He's a great 3rd line center--responsible defensively and can pitch in offensively.

And both are integral parts of the power play (Duchene) and penalty kill (O'Reilly), two areas where the Avs are in the top 5 in the league--and a reason for the great improvement from last season.

Curt · 2 months ago

You, MikeTruAvsfan are definitely posting under several names, but you don't see anyone here asking Dater to ban you. This is a free and open forum. Censorship doesn't fly here, as Adrian has already explained. Maybe you could try and pay attention.

Stephan from London · 2 months ago

Brilliant - Duchene has demonstrated by his play that he belongs to the NHL and so has O'Reilly. I hope O'reilly is confirmed to stay too!

The quality that Duchene displays for a 18 y-o both on and off the ice is bound to attract jealous haters - that comes with being exceptional. I am sure the kid has the skin thick enough to cope with this though.

Andrew · 2 months ago

I'm one of these fans who doesn't pull any punches. I expect a lot of people making huge amounts of money, especially when some of that money is being paid by me. If Duchene doesn't want to be expected to be another Crosby or Ovechkin as far as production, then he should never have entered the draft. Unless he wants extreme backlash from the fanbase, he better start producing immediately. I don't care how much pressure he's under or how sensitive he may or may not be. I want to see about 40 goals and 90+ points THIS YEAR. He's still got 74 games left to do it now that they aren't sending him down. That's just over a point a game. Should be no big deal the way people around here are talking about him. Apparently, he's the second coming of Sakic.
I want to see the scoresheet lit up with his name. I'm paying for season tickets, so I damn well expect Duchene to put up numbers this year. Crosby put up 102 points his first year. Ovechkin put up 106. That's what real fans expect - top level play. The Avalanche have always been about winning, period. That's what I expect. I better see a Stanley Cup being paraded down in LoDo this coming Spring. This fast start better not be a fluke. Anderson better be the second coming of Patrick Roy.

Jibblescribbits · 2 months ago

Also of relevance:

Rookie Year points:
Getzlaf: 58
Datsyuk: 35
Kovalchuk: 51
Gaborik: 36
Malkin: 85
Iginla: 50
Thornton: 41

Sakic: 62
Gretzky: 64
Messier: 33
Yzerman: 87
Jagr: 57

Lyn · 2 months ago

Who elected you Queen of the May?

nemesis44uk · 2 months ago

"better not be a fluke"
"better be the second coming of Patrick Roy"
"better start producing immediately"
"damn well expect Duchene to put up numbers this year"
"I expect a lot"

Yes, you do. Thanks to Jibbles for the reality check.

Dave's A Killer · 2 months ago

...or what? Calm down. quit quantifying everything and enjoy the fun, high energy hockey that we're seeing. I was prepared to see a youthful, hard working team lose 50 games, I've seen some great stuff over the last few weeks, and if it continues great, but if it levels off, well, I expected to see a youthful hard working team lose 50 games, so I'm ahead. I think we all are. If you buy your tickets to see Sidney Crosby or Alexander Ovechkin, then buy season tickets for the Penguins and Capitals. Sorry, but they're pretty extra special players, and you don't see that kind of consistent ridiculous point production very often. Plus, they play in the east. It's just different. The west is a different kind of conference, maybe it's the travel, but the offensive numbers are a little different. It's apples and oranges, and I like our apples.

skidd14 · 2 months ago

Hey Avsland,
Old timer fan here.I grew up with the Nords(Originally from Quebec city) and when they move to Denver,my heart moved with them.Instead of getting mad like some poeple from Quebec did.
I now live in Ontario and I get all the games on my XM radio.My proudest moment was when Sacks gave the cup to Ray.
they are really giving us something to be excited about this year,it's been a while,I haven't seen Matt enough to know if if should stay or not,but it will sure be fun to find out.
Stay high Avs fans.

Bradley · 2 months ago

The real problem with these moves (assuming both rookies are kept) is that eventually everyone is going to have to get paid. With all the young players on the roster, someone is going to get left out. If you have 3 number one centers, you have a real problem. It's not an asset. It's a problem. One of these guys will not be with the team long term, because neither of them is eventually going to accept second or third line status. Then you've got to sign Anderson to a long term deal. You'll have to replace Hejduk when he retires. You'll have to sign a veteran to replace Foote when he retires.

The Avalanche are going to have a big mess on their hands within a couple of years.

andy1050 · 2 months ago

Umm.... Every single team tries to manage those problems with every single player in every single season. That's what "management" does.

As for the 1st-2nd-3rd line ego thing, I think Sakic, Forsberg, and Ricci managed it pretty well in 1996. Didn't seem to hurt their egos so much.

americanario · 2 months ago

Three #1 centers?
You could argue Stastny and Duchene as #1 centers, but I don't think anyone believes O'Reilly is #1 center material. He may develop into that in a few years, but right now he is perfect on the third line because of the way he plays the game. His game is completely different than Stastny's or Duchene's.

Maybe Wolski could still be the third #1 center, but he's currently more valuable on the LW because of his versatility. And having seen the type of character Stastny and Duchene both have, I doubt they are going to bicker about who's the 2nd line center. Top two lines are usually pretty even in ice time, and their pay will probably even out. I bet Duchene will even take discounts on contracts just to play for the Avs...remember his fist pump when Tampa didn't take him in the draft? He's an Av at heart and he probably bleeds Joe Sakic Blue.

slapshotr2007 · 2 months ago

I disagree somewhat with your point that it is a problem. When the Avs came into the offseason, it was clear that they were going to "rebuild". Through the draft they were lucky to get 2 players that are producing this well at the NHL level at such a young age.

This is the way you re-build a team. Look at Pittsburgh/Chicago. They have the same "problem" with having a lot of good young players. Pittsburgh is doing great with Malkin, Crosby and Staal. Being strong down the middle in hockey is not a problem, it is definately an asset.

Fols · 2 months ago

This is such awesome news! What an exciting team once again!

Adrian do you have any news on Wolski? He seemed to have been pulled pretty early from the first line, I don't remember seeing him in overtime and left off the shoot-out line-up (even though it all ended up in a win). It just seemed like the first line wasn't clicking, but the shake up didn't seem to do much either?

Tucker....love to see him playing like his old self but the powerplay? Eeeek....that 2nd line powerplay is scary out there!

Lets just announce right now, Ryan your staying on the team too!

Lets go Aves!

Scott · 2 months ago

If all of you have been paying attention to how the Avalanche have ruined the development of Wolski, Stewart, and Svatos, you're going to get more of the same with how they are handling Matt Duchene and O'Reilly. Neither will end up being a long term NHL-er, at least not with Colorado. One or the other, and depending on how ruined they are, both could/will be gone from the Avalanche roster within a few years. As others have posted, these kids are being rushed into the NHL because the Avalanche have financial concerns. Without rushing these two onto the roster, they couldn't sell tickets. Instead of just going through the normal paces of a real rebuild, they are trying the desperate approach. The Avs needed to spend at least 3-4 years drafting well. I thought they were going to be smart about this and was excited about the thought of them building the team through a series of drafts. Actually restocking Lake Erie with a boatload of prospects.

Not gonna happen.

This team might get a jump this year, but will it will ultimately be a huge step backwards.

slapshotr2007 · 2 months ago

The draft is hitt or miss on every prospect. You cannot take any group and say they are the same when it comes to the draft. Every team has more misses then hits in the draft, so for the Avs to have 2 potential hits is good for the team. Prospects are great, but NHL players are better, and these kids are NHL players.

You have to have realistic expectations. These kids aren't going to be super stars this year, but they sure do have more upside. What do you suggest the AVS put on the ice in their place? Give a concrete and applicable example.

Having these kids go back to the OHL for one more year would basically produce the same player that they were this year.

Would you use this arguement for Pittsburgh - Chicago - Washington - Los Angeles?

pascalp · 2 months ago

How can you say that ? When a player has the level to play in the NHL he has to play there and both kids have shown they have more than the level to play. Would you say the same about Crosby or Ovechkin ? I guess no.... And for your examples, well, only Stewart may have been rushed but due to injuries last year and he's in good hands now. Svatos ? He only had some injuries, I will never consider a rookie 30 goal scorer as "rushed". And in fact the Avs are more known for not having given a chance to kids to play in the NHL in the past than rushing him, just take the example of Boychuk, glued in the Avs prospect system before he goes to Boston. One year with Boston's AHL affiliate (best AHL defenseman) and know starting what looks like a good season with the big team.

casimirpulaski · 2 months ago

Scott - I will respectfully disagree with your analysis and here's why: When a hockey player at the professional level is ready to play at the NHL level, they play - coaches, team personnel, general managers, etc. are not going to mortgage their future for tickets, financial concerns, or anything else just to get kids into the NHL level - if they weren't ready, they wouldn't be there - period. Have you not watched the games? Ryan O'Reilly is what Lappy was about 8 or 9 years ago, and is on the upside. If you had seen Duchene's goal against Detroit, and how he manhandled Detroit's d-men, you would see that they both belong. We look nothing like Lake Erie right now. I'm just not sure I'm seeing what you're seeing out there, because this team looks beyond decent, and so do O'Reilly and Duchene.

gdr · 2 months ago

what a major fail of a decision. great, now we get to lose these guys to free agency a year earlier now that their pro contract kicks in this year. this is bad news for the future.

slapshotr2007 · 2 months ago

It is always bad news to have 2 good young players...

Posi · 2 months ago

Agreed. If only we had nothing but bad players, we would not have to worry about losing them to free agency. What a bummer.

andy1050 · 2 months ago

Or sign them to contracts and keep them. It's the same with every single player in the league.

Travis · 2 months ago

There's a different feeling about this team this year. If we as fans accept that there's going to be some mistakes made and games lost, then they should be ok. We're the ones who put the pressure on these kids by expecting too much. And It appears that everyone is on the same playing field with Sacco and you've got to preform to get minutes. As long as he keeps holding everyone accountable, then Duchene won't be considered singled out if his play tapers off and he loses some minutes.

Eric · 2 months ago

You do realize that the Avs are going to suck for the next 5-6 years. This is a fluke start, and everyone knows it.
By the way, have you looked at the standings lately? Calgary is tied with the Avs. Everything will be back to normal very soon (i.e. the Avs near the bottom of the standings.)

andy1050 · 2 months ago

And if they do, that's okay and the beginning of the next dynasty, as long as they keep playing with the passion and hard work they've shown so far. In other words, as long as they play the opposite as the Red Wings have played so far.

Bob in Boulder · 2 months ago

Great news. Both of these kids look like they belong and are a part of this early season success. Question for you naysayers: Do the Avs beat the Red Wings Saturday night without either of those guys? Heck, there have been nights when Stats has been the 3rd best center on the squad.

adriandater · 2 months ago

Derek,
They both can still be sent back to junior after the 10-game mark. But their contracts are valid, for free agency purposes. Also, 18 year olds do not have to clear waivers.

Rob · 2 months ago

Geez Mike !! Do you actually think Duchene is not ready?? Are you one of these fans that only watches goals ? His defensive play has been excellent , his speed is incredible , stick handling & shooting are superb. This young man works hard !! You are wayyyyyyyy off base ! Watch him away from the puck and you will learn a thing or two.