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Utah (18-17-3) at Colorado (26-2-7)
- When: Dec 23 2025, 9:00 PM
- Where: Ball Arena, Denver, CO, USA
- TV: Utah16
Utah vs Colorado NHL Preview & Pick
Moneyline: Colorado -260
Spread: Colorado -1.5 (+100)
Total: 6.5
Colorado Avalanche Breakdown
Colorado heads into the final game before the holiday pause playing as well as any team in hockey. The Avalanche have been nearly untouchable at home, piling up wins in Denver and refusing to give opponents much hope once games reach the third period. They enter Tuesday night riding a five game winning streak and have yet to suffer a regulation loss on home ice this season.
The Avalanche have turned Ball Arena into a nightmare. Every team that visits leaves with either a loss or a single consolation point, and most do not even get that. Colorado’s ability to dictate pace at home has been the defining trait of this season.
Nathan MacKinnon continues to drive everything offensively. His speed, confidence, and constant puck pressure force defenses into mistakes. Colorado does not rely on one player, though. Scoring comes from all areas of the lineup, including the blue line, which consistently activates in the offensive zone. Depth scoring has also surged recently, giving the Avalanche multiple ways to break games open.
Colorado is a heavy moneyline favorite at -260, and that reflects both their home dominance and their consistency across all situations. With the break coming, expect a full effort rather than a look ahead spot.
Utah Mammoth Breakdown
Utah arrives in Denver trending in the right direction after navigating a difficult middle stretch of the season. The Mammoth have steadied themselves recently, winning four of their last six games and showing improved offensive balance.
Utah has already proven it can compete with Colorado when conditions are right, stealing a home win earlier this season in overtime. That said, the challenge here is entirely different. Winning in Denver requires extended puck possession, disciplined defense, and flawless special teams.
The Mammoth offense relies on quick puck movement and depth scoring rather than overpowering opponents physically. They have shown the ability to rally late and generate clutch goals, but sustaining that against Colorado’s speed and forecheck will be a major test.
Utah’s recent wins show resilience, yet the altitude and Avalanche pressure tend to wear teams down as the game progresses.
Prediction and Betting Outlook
Utah can generate offense, but Colorado’s ability to control games at home makes them the clear side. Expect the Mammoth to compete early before Colorado’s depth and pace create separation in the second and third periods. Scoring chances should be plentiful, but Colorado’s finishing advantage tips the balance.
Final Score Prediction: Avalanche 5, Mammoth 2
Score Prediction: Avalanche 5, Mammoth 2
Pick: Colorado -1.5 (+100)
Total: Over 6.5 (+100)
- NHL Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
