SAN JOSE, Calif. — The Colorado Avalanche have experienced a challenging beginning to their season, grappling with injuries and unsatisfactory defensive displays. However, following two consecutive victories after an initial four-game losing streak, there is renewed optimism, especially for Ross Colton, who may be on the verge of a breakout performance.
The 28-year-old winger, who has recently been elevated to the top line due to Jonathan Drouin’s injury, netted two goals in the Avalanche’s 4-1 win over San Jose on Sunday. In his last three games, he has dazzled fans with five goals, bringing his total to six for the season, which places him second overall in the NHL for goals. His success is undoubtedly bolstered by playing alongside elite forwards Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen.
“I just want to play my game and get open for them,” Colton stated. “Finding those small areas on the ice, they’re fantastic at finding you. It’s really enjoyable.”
Colton’s initial goal on Sunday came during a power play when he received a precise pass from MacKinnon in the slot. The second goal was a product of teamwork as Rantanen made a lead pass that allowed Colton to break free, surging past two defenders and into the offensive zone.
Wearing a notably oversized Avalanche hat as the game’s standout player in the locker room, Colton emphasized his approach to maintaining a simple mindset while playing alongside such talented teammates. He has noted a developing chemistry with both star players during recent matchups.
“The best part of playing with them is returning to the bench and hearing their advice, which has a significant impact,” Colton shared. “It means a lot coming from them, knowing they have confidence in me.”
In his second season with the Avalanche, Colton has built on a career year during his previous season with 17 goals and 23 assists. He was also a force during the playoffs, leading the team with 43 hits.
“He’s definitely playing with increased confidence,” coach Jared Bednar commented. “He’s showing great skating ability and brings just the right amount of grit. Right now, he’s fitting seamlessly with the other players, and when scoring opportunities arise, he’s consistently finding the back of the net.”
Drouin, who scored 19 goals last season, has been sidelined since the season opener due to an upper body injury. The Avalanche are also missing several key players, including Gabe Landeskog (knee injury), Artturi Lehkonen (shoulder injury), Valeri Nichushkin (suspension), and defenseman Devon Toews (lower body injury).
In Drouin’s absence, Colton has risen to the occasion, contributing significantly to both the top line and the power play unit. Notably, three of Colton’s goals have been scored while on the power play, with Rantanen enjoying the dynamics of playing alongside him.
“He plays intensely and with a competitive edge,” Rantanen remarked. “On the power play, he’s excellent at handling loose pucks and finishing plays, which we’ve seen this year.”
Colton also shared that this season, playing as a winger has allowed him to find greater comfort on the ice compared to last year when he played center. He feels liberated to engage more fiercely in forechecking and create turnovers.
“Last year was mostly about figuring things out and getting accustomed to the system — I didn’t always feel like myself,” Colton reflected. “But this year, I’m substantially more comfortable.”