Colorado Avalanche unveil 2026-27 schedule and preview tougher Central Division race

The Colorado Avalanche announced an 84‑game 2026‑27 NHL schedule that begins on September 30, 2026, with a season‑opening home game against the Los Angeles Kings at Ball Arena, and concludes on April 10, 2027. The schedule adds two extra divisional matchups, trims the preseason to four games, and features a marquee outdoor Winter Classic on New Year’s Eve at Rice‑Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City. The team will also play a home‑and‑home series with the Dallas Stars in early October as part of the league’s Frozen Frenzy.

Looking ahead, the Avalanche aim to return to the Western Conference Final and defend the Central Division against a stronger field. Off‑season moves include extensions for key players and signings such as Jayden Schwartz. Competition intensifies with the Dallas Stars retaining most of their roster, the Winnipeg Jets adding depth, and the Minnesota Wild seeking to stay in contention. Star forwards Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar, along with goaltender Scott Wedgewood, are expected to lead Colorado’s push for another division title and a deep playoff run.