Colorado returns from the All-Star break tonight, welcoming the Phoenix Coyotes back to town. The Avs beat Phoenix 9 days ago 4-3, in a game that really wasn't as close as the score indicated.
Currently in the West, the Avs are in 9th and the 'Yotes are in 11th
7. Calgary 56 pts
8. Minnesota 54 pts
9. Colorado 51 pts
10. Edmonton 50 pts
11. Phoenix 46 pts.
all 5 of these teams are in action tonight, with Calgary and Minnesota facing each other.
D Jordan Leopold is expected to return tonight after missing 17 games with a groin pull. D Kyle Cumiskey was sent down to Albany over the break, leaving the Avs with just 6 healthy defensemen (counting Leopold). John-Michael Liles (foot) is out, although has started skating. Patrice Brisebois (back) isn't even skating at this point, so it doesn't sound like his return is imminent.
F Ben Guite was also reassigned to Albany. F Brad May has been skating, so the Guite move must mean his return is close.