Joe Sakic makes a bold claim about the Avalanche's Stanley Cup chances

Sakic, the Avalanche's President of Hockey Operations and a two-time Stanley Cup champion with the franchise, talked recently about the strength of this year's roster and why he believes in this club's chances. He pointed to the team's balance, depth and leadership as reasons Colorado is ready to make a deep run.

Graham Tiedtke from Mile High Sticking writes that Captain Gabriel Landeskog's return from a long injury absence has given the team a boost on and off the ice, and Sakic said having him back changes how the whole lineup functions. He also emphasized the contributions from forward stars and the defense corps, showing this group doesn't rely on just one line to carry the load.

Goaltending has been a surprise strength for Colorado this season, with Scott Wedgewood leading the league in wins and posting strong goals-against numbers while Mackenzie Blackwood has provided solid support in net. The tandem has helped the Avalanche be one of the stingiest teams in the League, a key ingredient for postseason success.

Offensively, Nathan MacKinnon has been on a tear, leading the NHL in goals and points, and he's backed by Norris Trophy winner Cale Makar and a highly effective forward group that keeps pressure on opponents night after night. This combination of star power and role player contributions is exactly the kind of mix Sakic said he believes can get the Avalanche through the grind of a Stanley Cup Playoffs.

There's still a long season ahead and the playoffs will be the real test, but Avalanche supporters have good reason to believe. With the squad clicking on both ends of the ice, this season could be the one where Colorado finally gets that long-awaited Cup return.