The Avalanche's defensive core was, without a doubt, a paramount contributor to last year's glorious success. As the year continued, Cale Makar fanned the flames of a scorching hot blue line and earned himself the Conn Smyth Trophy in his first finals appearance. The effectiveness of Colorado’s defenders jumping up into the play and contributing offensively was a clear competitive advantage for the Avalanche. How does this season's group stack up with last year's, and how will deadline additions work with a full season and camp together?
Cale Makar is the clear leader among this Avalanche d-core, but the rest of the crew is nothing to laugh at.