Avalanche and Kings face off in 2026-27 season opener at Ball Arena

The Colorado Avalanche host the Los Angeles Kings for their season opener at Ball Arena on Sept. 30, 2026. The Avalanche will have 11 healthy forwards as Logan O’Connor and Zachary L’Heureux are day-to-day with injuries. Colorado’s third line features newcomers Fedor Svechkov, Jaden Schwartz, and T.J. Hughes, with Hughes making his NHL debut. Mackenzie Blackwood is set to start in goal for Colorado. The Kings enter a new era following Anze Kopitar's retirement, with Drew Doughty as captain and Quinton Byfield taking over as the No. 1 center. The Kings will also be missing players due to injuries, including Kevin Fiala and Corey Perry.

• 6:14 PMYahoo Sports — Avalanche Game 1 vs Los Angeles Kings: Opening Night! Lines, Notes & How To Watch