Open Thread: Colorado Avalanche vs. Pittsburgh Penguins (6:00 p.m.)

Colorado Avalanche: 41-22-6

The Opponent: Pittsburgh Penguins (34-26-10)

Time: 6:00 p.m. MT

Watch: TNT, Sportsnet, TVAS

Listen: Altitude Sports Radio FM 92.5, AM 950

Opponent’s Beat: Pensburgh

Coming off a sixth straight victory and a fresh new extension for Coach Jared Bednar, the Colorado Avalanche are riding high into Ball Arena to face a Pittsburgh Penguins team that has struggled to maintain its chances at a wildcard spot in the Eastern Conference playoff picture.

Despite the continued excellence of Sidney Crosby and a resurgent season from Evgeni Malkin, the Pens desperately need to spoil Colorado’s streak to stay afloat. But the Avs need the win too if they want to keep pushing for the top…