It may seem like a long-shot right now, but there is a plausible path back to the top for the defending champs.
Colorado Avalanche narrowing division gap in wide open Western Conference, Colorado Avalanche
Darren Helm retires following 16-year NHL career. Spent last two seasons with Colorado - Mile High Sports
Different Colorado Avalanche team than last year, same goal to win
Avalanche's dominance at Ball Arena, highlighted by Nathan MacKinnon's 22-game home point streak, carrying Colorado through first half of season – Boulder Daily Camera
Colorado Avalanche Feature Stories: Looking at the run to the playoffs for the Western Conference - Mile High Hockey
Why Colorado Avalanche path to Stanley Cup just got tougher, NHL Insider, Colorado Avalanche
The Colorado Avalanche have turned from lovable underdogs to legitimate Stanley Cup contenders - Mile High Hockey
Core exercise: Avs follow pattern of Stanley Cup champions
Different Colorado Avalanche team than last year, same goal to win
For the Avalanche, intense playoff hockey began with the round-robin opener - Mile High Sports
Different Colorado Avalanche team than last year, same goal to win
Mile High Madness as Edmonton Oilers outgunned in loss to Avalanche
History Lesson: Avalanche look to end 21-year Game 7 drought on Sunday at Ball Arena - Mile High Sports