Avs part of crowded race for West playoff spots

By Bud L. Ellis

With the Western Conference playoff picture so tight, all it takes is one sustained stretch of play to break away from the pack.

And despite a recent skid in which they’ve 3-5-2 in their past 10 games, the Colorado Avalanche remain squarely in the hunt for a berth in the NHL playoffs.

The Avalanche sit tied with Nashville and Anaheim for fourth place with 50 points. Phoenix and defending Stanley Cup champion Chicago are knotted at 49 points in seventh place.

With one point separating the final five playoff spots in the conference, it’s no wonder every game matters. The Avalanche have stumbled recently, but look to get back on track with a two-game Midwest road swing.

The Avalanche play at Chicago on Wednesday, followed by a trip to Minnesota on Friday. Sunday, the Avalanche play host to Vancouver.

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Tuesday, January 11, 2011 at 5:19 pm by bud

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