Rantanen has been an essential member of the Avalanche's core since arriving in 2015-16, having won the Stanley Cup in 2021-22. Widely regarded as one of the NHL's premier offensive talents, he stands among the league's top five scorers over the last five seasons.

Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon extended Colorado’s lead in its Western Conference showdown against the Oilers with two first-period goals in rapid succession.

The Colorado Avalanche came into Thursday night with a primetime matchup that everyone wanted to see. The Edmonton Oilers have all the star power in the world and are seeking to win their first Stanley Cup in the Connor McDavid era.

Elliotte Friedman reports that money was one significant factor (perhaps the biggest) in the Colorado Avalanche’s decision to trade Mikko Rantanen.

Another comeback win, this time in Colorado, seals a successful road trip — and the Oilers' place among the NHL's elite.

Colorado Avalanche (27-18-1, in the Central Division) Denver; Saturday, 4 p.m. EST BOTTOM LINE: The Colorado Avalanche host the Dallas Stars after Nathan MacKinnon scored two goals in the Avalanche’s 4-3 loss to the Edmonton Oilers. Colorado has a 6-7-0 ...

(AP Photo/David Zalubowski) Edmonton Oilers left wing Zach Hyman, center, puts a shot on Colorado Avalanche goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood, right, after driving past center Nathan MacKinnon, left, and defenseman Josh Manson, back, in the second period of ...

Despite Blackwood's incredible play, the Avs have been scuffling in the new year. They've gone 4-2-1 in 2025, alternating wins and losses as their offence has started to dry up. Contrast that with the Oilers, who have won seven of their past eight, including two shutouts from Stuart Skinner and five four-goal nights from the offence.

Connor McDavid has served his three-game suspension for cross-checking Conor Garland in the head on Jan. 18. After plenty of debate and complaints that the punishment for McDavid was too steep, the Oilers captain is back and ready to roll.

The Edmonton Oilers defeated the Colorado Avalanche 4-3 in an NHL Western Conference clash at Ball Arena in Denver on Thursday (Jan. 16) night. Viktor Arvidsson, Evan Bouchard, Brett Kulak and Connor McDavid scored for the Oilers.

However, one rivalry that a couple of the Oilers' best players enjoy is against the Seattle Kraken. The Kraken haven't been in the league for a long time, but Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl have enjoyed much success against them.

Edmonton Oilers superstar Leon Draisaitl scored his 29th goal in the first five minute of a game in a 3-2 loss to the Washington Capitals.