The St. Louis Blues aren’t getting much time to settle into the new NHL season. Less than 24 hours after opening their season Friday night with a 4-0 win on the road at the Dallas Stars, the Blues head to Denver for another difficult Central Division matchup against the Colorado Avalanche.
Saturday’s game will be the second half of St. Louis’ first back-to-back of the season and the second stop on a season-opening three-game road trip.
The challenge doesn’t get any easier.
Colorado is waiting at Ball Arena, giving the Blues another early opportunity to see how they stack up against one of the Central Division’s most dangerous teams.
How to Watch Blues vs. Avalanche
Date: Saturday, Oct. 3
Time: 9 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. CT
Location: Ball Arena, Denver, Colorado
St. Louis Streaming: Blue Note+
Radio: 101 ESPN
Additional television and streaming availability can vary by market, so fans should check their local provider before puck drop.
The Blues will have very little recovery time after playing Friday night in Dallas before traveling to Denver.
Blues Face Immediate Back-To-Back Test
This is exactly the kind of schedule that can tell a coaching staff plenty about its team. St. Louis opened the season Friday against Dallas and immediately has to turn around for another divisional game.
There isn’t much time to correct mistakes, rest tired legs or spend hours studying Colorado.
The Blues simply have to get back on the ice.
St. Louis’ opening road trip doesn’t end Saturday, either. The Blues will visit the Chicago Blackhawks on Tuesday before finally returning home to face the San Jose Sharks on Thursday.
Avalanche Present Quite The Test
Colorado presents an especially difficult challenge because of the speed and offensive talent throughout its lineup. Nathan MacKinnon remains one of the most dangerous players in hockey, and giving him opportunities in transition can turn a close game into a problem in a hurry.
That makes puck management particularly important for St. Louis on tired legs. The Avalanche beat the Los Angeles Kings 8-4 in their season opener.
The opening weekend won’t define the Blues’ season, but it certainly isn’t giving them an easy introduction.
Dallas on Friday. Colorado on Saturday. Chicago coming next.
If the Blues wanted an immediate test of where they stand in the Central Division, they’re getting one.
