This past weekend, the Colorado Avalanche showcased their rookie players before the main training camp begins on Thursday, September 17th. Following the announcement of the 25-man roster of participants, the team finally hit the ice for some practice sessions.
Practice at Family Sports Center
Early Friday morning, the Avalanche rookies gathered for a quick practice session before their upcoming two-game series in San Jose, California. During the session, the team made a roster addition to strengthen their defensive unit, notably including Teddy Lechner, a 2026 draft pick likely loaned from the USHL. Other invitees from development camp also participated. The practice lasted slightly over an hour and involved line formations, with Beckett Hamilton frequently lining up alongside TJ Hughes. The drills included battle exercises at center ice, leading into two-on-two scenarios—possibly a new approach introduced by the team’s new head coach of the Colorado Eagles, Jussi Ahokas. Special teams work was also emphasized, focusing on traditional 5v4 situations and an intriguing 3v2 scenario.
Game 1 vs. Anaheim – 7-2 Victory
The first game was delayed over an hour before the puck finally dropped. Once it did, the Avalanche dominated, winning 7-2. The top line featured TJ Hughes centering Taylor Makar and Beckett Hamilton, and it was this trio that got the scoring started. Makar scored a beautiful goal assisted by Hamilton, who then tallied himself with a cross-ice pass from Hughes. Other goal scorers included Matthew DiMarsico, Shawn Carrier, Cooper Gay, and invitee Kalder Varga. Defenseman Alex Gagne delivered an outstanding performance, recording a Gordie Howe hat trick plus an assist while sporting the “C” on his jersey as team captain. Goalie Ilya Nabokov played a strong first 40 minutes, making notable saves on numerous penalty kills, especially during Anaheim’s power play opportunities.
Game 2 vs. Vegas – 6-5 Shootout Loss
In the second game, the lineup was more limited, and the team played a tighter checking style against the Golden Knights rookies. Similar to the first game, the opening two periods saw Colorado build a 4-2 lead, thanks to a solid effort from goalie Nikita Novosyolov. Goals came from invites Noah Jettelson, Kalder Varga, and two from Jake Chaisson. In the third, Alexandre Raymond, a 2026 draftee, replaced Novosyolov in goal to counter Vegas’ pressure. This period became a penalty-filled chaos, with Vegas leveling the game 4-4. Nikita Prishchepov then scored on a penalty kill breakaway, briefly putting Colorado ahead 5-4. However, a costly penalty by Linus Funck allowed Vegas to regain momentum, eventually tying the game and forcing overtime, which went scoreless. In the shootout, Beckett Hamilton scored for Colorado, but Vegas responded with two goals, resulting in a 6-5 loss.
Key Takeaways
Defensively, the rookies showed a mix of AHL veterans and young prospects. Teddy Lechner, despite his inexperience and coming from the USHL season, performed admirably, as did Ondrej Ruml. Linus Funck displayed inconsistent moments but saw significant ice time. Alex Gagne’s strong debut suggests he could move up the depth chart, while Sean Behrens set up a notable goal in the second game but otherwise seemed to be finding his role.
Of particular excitement is Beckett Hamilton, who impressed with his skill, vision, and hockey IQ. At just 18, he needs to add strength but already possesses the attributes of a future NHL forward, including a heavy shot, playmaking ability, and excellent defensive instincts. His contributions—scoring a goal, assisting, and netting a shootout winner—set a positive tone heading into a more challenging phase against NHL players. Alongside Hamilton, TJ Hughes and Taylor Makar positioned themselves as strong contenders for roster spots in main camp.
In goal, Ilya Nabokov and Nikita Novosyolov each played vital roles in maintaining the team’s lead during critical moments. Nabokov demonstrated his composure and sharp reflexes, while Novosyolov played aggressively and effectively, challenging shooters in the crease. Both made a case for their readiness for higher levels of play.
Fan Take
These rookie performances are exciting for hockey fans because they hint at the exciting talent emerging from Colorado’s pipeline, potentially shaping the team’s future core. Watching young players like Hamilton and Gagne step up could herald a new wave of prospects making noise at the NHL level soon, underscoring the sport’s ever-present blend of emerging talent and opportunity.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
