Eagles Play Big Minutes in First Avalanche Preseason Game
Sep 17, 2019
by Mcallaster Miller @calmiller17 / ColoradoEagles.com
The Colorado Avalanche opened up their preseason schedule in the friendly confines of Pepsi Center Tuesday night. For some, this was their first time donning the Avalanche 'A', a special moment. For others, cracking this first preseason game roster is all too familiar as they try to crack a more coveted roster spot on NHL opening night.
"For me it's to prove that I can play in all three zones." said Avalanche defenseman Nicolas Meloche. "I know I can be a reliable defenseman at this level, playing on the PK and powerplay and also be that shutdown guy"
On this opening night of preseason, however, eight players who have spent some time with the Eagles, look to make a positive impact. Sheldon Dries, Tyson Jost, AJ Greer, Ryan Graves, Nicolas Meloche, Martin Kaut, Nick Henry, and Vladislav Kemenev. These Eagles get the first test in front of Avalanche management, and all the nerves and expectations that come with it.
"It's nice to get the first one out of the way and shake off those expectations to get back to your game." said Avalanche forward Nick Henry. This is Henry's first NHL Main Camp with the team and he knows he's got things to work on to make the jump to the next level. "I want to show them that I took advantage of my time this summer. I really worked on my skating and I think I really improved, so obviously it'd be nice for them to see that up here."
Wins and losses are always nice during preseason play, but they are certainly not the focal point. The loss tonight will be forgotten shortly, but the impressions not as easily. As Avalanche camp ramps up with more preseason games and Eagles camp nears, each player is focused on leaving the management staff with that lasting impression. "Obviously not the outcome we wanted tonight, but I'll take any NHL ice time I can get. It was nice to experience a little bit of the Colorado hockey atmosphere up here tonight," said Eagles goaltender Hunter Miska.
The 2019-20 season begins when the Eagles host the Stockton Heat on Friday, October 4th at the Budweiser Events Center. Tickets for all regular-season contests will go on sale to the general public on Friday, September 20th at 10 am. Season tickets for the 2019-20 season are available now and can be reserved with a deposit of just $100 per seat by calling (970) 686-SHOT.
by Mcallaster Miller @calmiller17 / ColoradoEagles.com
