A preview of the game:

The Wild has picked up points in each of its last eight games in Denver (6-0-2), including a franchise-best three-game winning streak at Pepsi Center. Prior to the 6-0-2 run, the Wild was 4-15-2 in Denver.

and a more depressing note:

The Wild has earned two straight shutouts in Denver, both by 1-0 margins and by different goaltenders (Harding, Backstrom). The Avalanche has not scored a goal vs. Minnesota at home in 167:20, dating back to Matt Duchene’s first period goal Nov. 28, 2009.

Another preview:

The Colorado Avalanche may have picked a bad time to slump with the Minnesota Wild coming to town. Minnesota tries for its sixth win in seven road games against Colorado, loser of two straight, on Saturday night.

Justin Bourne talks of all the holidays he, and other players, miss as a result of playing hockey

As I watched a spectacular finish to last night's Edmonton Oilers/Colorado Avalanche game, stuffed full of turkey and ‘taters after a thoroughly satisfying meal with my family, I couldn't help but reminisce upon the hockey-playing years of my life, where each holiday was just another day on the calendar.