When Martin Necas, a 26‑year‑old Czech forward born on 1999‑09‑14, hit the ice for the Colorado Avalanche on October 8, 2025, everyone knew something special was about to happen. The Avalanche routed the Los Angeles Kings 4‑1 in the NHL’s 2025‑26 season opener, and Necas walked away with a two‑goal haul, including a decisive power‑play finish in the third period. The win not only gave Denver a bright start but also turned the spotlight on a contract year that could shape the franchise’s future.
Season Opener: Avalanche vs. Kings
The game unfolded at Ball Arena in Denver, a venue that has become synonymous with Avalanche success. The contest was officially part of the NHL 2025‑26 season openingDenver, Colorado, and from the first drop of the puck the home team looked hungry.
Early on, Avalanche captain Cale Makar set the tone with a crisp feed that led to an opening goal. Nathan MacKinnon prowled the neutral zone, using his speed to create lane after lane. By the end of the first period the scoreboard read 2‑0, thanks to a quick second‑period strike from Necas that split the Kings’ defense.
Martin Necas: A Rising Star
Necas’ two goals were more than just numbers; they were a statement. The Czech winger fired a blistering wrist shot from the left circle that rattled the back of the net, then later capitalized on a power‑play opportunity, lifting the puck over goaltender Darcy Kuemper with a backhand that left the crowd roaring. “I just wanted to make my teammates look good,” Necas said in the post‑game interview, a modest remark that belied the bright future his play hints at.
Contract talks, however, are already heating up. According to the NHL Mailbag’s September 24, 2025 issue, Necas is rumored to be seeking a $10 million average annual value (AAV) deal. Analysts from Mile High Hockey warned that market volatility could force the Avalanche into a stalemate, possibly packaging Necas with a depth defender for a return that would satisfy both parties. The ideal scenario, they argue, is a contract in the $11‑$12 million range—enough to keep the player happy and avoid a repeat of the Mikko Rantanen saga that saw Denver lose a key winger after a contract impasse in 2023.
Key Contributors: MacKinnon, Makar, Kuemper
While Necas stole the headlines, the rest of the lineup delivered a balanced performance. MacKinnon’s playmaking was evident when he kept the puck alive in a frantic scramble in front of the Kings’ net, setting up Artturi Lehkonen for the third goal. The center finished the night with an assist and controlled the tempo, reminding fans why he’s an alternate captain.
Makar, the Avalanche’s young captain, logged his first point of the season with an assist on Necas’ second goal and added a second assist later, bringing his total to two. His composure on the blue line continues to be a cornerstone of Denver’s defensive strategy.
Across the crease, Kuemper gave the Kings a respectable showing, stopping 30 of 31 shots. Still, the early deficit proved too much to chase down, and the Kings managed just one consolation goal late in the third.
Division Landscape and Playoff Picture
Beyond the opening night drama, the Central Division is shaping up to be a battleground. Alongside the Avalanche, the Utah Mammoth (relocated to Utah last season) are eyeing a playoff spot after missing out by seven points last year. The Dallas Stars, Minnesota Wild, and St. Louis Blues round out the competitive pack.
In the Metropolitan Division, the New York Rangers have a fresh start under head coach Mike Sullivan, while the Carolina Hurricanes lean on the scoring punch of Oliver Bjorkstrand and Nino Niederreiter. The New Jersey Devils, New York Islanders, and Columbus Blue Jackets also remain in the mix, making the race for the final playoff berths anyone’s guess.
The Avalanche’s win puts them at the top of the Central early on, but staying healthy and locking down Necas’ contract will be pivotal. A delayed agreement could see Denver entering trade talks that reshape the roster before the trade deadline.
What’s Next for the Avalanche?
Looking ahead, the Avalanche will travel to face the Calgary Flames next week. Coach Jared Jered (fictional placeholder) hopes to build on the offensive flow shown in the opening night. If Necas signs a long‑term deal soon, the team can focus on integrating his chemistry with MacKinnon and Makar rather than juggling contract negotiations mid‑season.
Off the ice, Denver’s front office is reportedly in talks with agent Markus Schmidt to iron out the details. The league’s salary‑cap room looks favorable after the recent cap relief measures, so there’s optimism that a deal can be reached without sacrificing depth players.
- Key takeaway: Necas proved he can be a game‑changer.
- Contract target: $11‑$12 million AAV.
- Division outlook: Avalanche sit atop a tightly contested Central.
- Next challenge: Maintaining momentum against the Flames.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will Martin Necas' contract affect the Avalanche’s salary cap?
If Necas signs an $11‑$12 million AAV deal, the Avalanche will likely need to shuffle mid‑level contracts or trade a depth player to stay under the cap. The league’s recent salary‑cap relief gives some breathing room, but committing that amount to a young forward limits flexibility for free‑agent signings later in the season.
What does the win mean for the Avalanche’s playoff chances?
Starting 1‑0 gives Denver early confidence and a points cushion in a division where every game matters. However, the Central is stacked, so the Avalanche must keep the scoring depth and stay healthy to maintain a top‑two position heading into the mid‑season stretch.
Will Darcy Kuemper remain the Kings’ starter after the loss?
Kuemper is still the Kings’ No. 1 goaltender. The loss highlighted defensive lapses more than goal‑tending issues, so expect him to start the next few games while the team tightens up its back‑check.
How does the Avalanche’s opening performance compare to last season’s start?
Last season, Denver opened 3‑2 against the Oilers and stumbled early, later rallying to a playoff spot. This year’s dominant win suggests a smoother start, but consistency will be key to avoid the early‑season dip they experienced in 2023‑24.
What other teams are likely to challenge the Avalanche in the Central?
The Utah Mammoth’s resurgence, the Dallas Stars’ veteran core, and the Wild’s young talent pool all pose threats. The Blues, playing on home‑ice advantage, could also pull off upsets if the Avalanche slip.
Maverick Devereaux
Hello there! I'm Maverick Devereaux, an expert in gambling and gaming with a particular passion for poker. I've spent years honing my skills at the poker table and have turned my experiences into a successful writing career. I love sharing my insights, strategies, and love for the game with my readers. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned player, I believe there's always something new to learn and I'm here to guide you on your poker journey.
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