Trent Miner Jumpstarts the Team: 3 Takeaways from a Gritty Avalanche 5–4 Shootout Loss to Carolina
The Colorado Avalanche may have fallen 5–4 in a thrilling shootout against the Carolina Hurricanes on Friday night, but the performance offered plenty of positives — especially from young goaltender Trent Miner, who made his NHL debut one to remember. Despite the loss, Colorado battled fiercely, showing resilience and depth in a high-tempo contest that felt more like a playoff preview than an early-season matchup.
Here are three takeaways from a gritty night in Raleigh:
1. Trent Miner Makes His Mark
Thrown into the spotlight, 23-year-old netminder Trent Miner gave the Avalanche the spark they needed. Making 34 saves on 38 shots, Miner stood tall against one of the league’s most relentless offensive teams. His composure under pressure, particularly in the second period when Carolina fired 16 shots, kept Colorado in the game. Though the shootout didn’t go his way, Miner’s debut displayed poise, athleticism, and confidence — traits that suggest he could become a key depth option in the Avalanche’s goaltending corps.
2. Avalanche Offense Finds Its Rhythm
Colorado’s top lines came alive after a slow start. Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen led the charge with their trademark chemistry, each tallying a goal and assist, while Valeri Nichushkin added another powerful performance. The Avalanche’s puck movement was crisp, and their transition play — something head coach Jared Bednar emphasized all week — caused consistent trouble for Carolina’s defense. Even in defeat, the four-goal output reflected a dangerous attack finding its groove again.
3. Grit and Response Under Pressure
Perhaps most encouraging was the Avalanche’s response after falling behind early. The team refused to back down, answering every Carolina surge with energy and physicality. Defensemen like Cale Makar and Josh Manson were active at both ends, and the fourth line provided crucial shifts that tilted momentum late in regulation. While Colorado couldn’t clinch the extra point, their pushback in hostile territory showcased the mental toughness needed for a long season.
Despite the shootout heartbreak, there was much to build on — a resilient effort, encouraging depth performances, and a rookie goaltender who seized his opportunity. If this game was any indication, Trent Miner and the Avalanche won’t be short on fight as they chase another deep playoff run.
