Minnesota Wild vs Colorado Avalanche Picks and Predictions for Thursday February 26 2026
Use Code PPWC
The Minnesota Wild travel to Ball Arena on Thursday, February 26, 2026, to take on the Colorado Avalanche. Puck drop is set for 9:00 PM ET, and the game will be broadcast on ESPN+. This Central Division showdown features two of the Western Conference’s top teams, with Colorado dominating at home and Minnesota riding an impressive winning streak. At the time of this writing, the odds were not released. Be sure to check out our free NHL picks for the full slate of action.
Wild Surging With Balanced Offense
Minnesota enters this matchup at 34-14-10 overall and 17-8-3 on the road. The Wild have won five straight games, recently defeating Nashville 6-5 in overtime, Montreal 4-3 in overtime, Edmonton 7-3, Calgary 4-1, and Chicago 4-3 in a shootout. That stretch has showcased their ability to win in multiple ways, whether through tight overtime battles or decisive regulation victories.
On the season, Minnesota is averaging 3.31 goals per game while allowing 2.86 goals against per contest. They generate 28.9 shots per game but allow 30.0, which suggests they rely on efficiency and opportunistic scoring. Their power play has been a major weapon with 48 goals at a 25.4% conversion rate, though their penalty kill sits at 77.2%. Minnesota has also allowed zero short-handed goals this season, reflecting disciplined puck management.
The Wild’s offensive surge during this five-game run has been impressive, scoring 25 goals in that span. Their power play efficiency gives them a legitimate edge in high-leverage situations, especially against teams that take penalties.
Sign Up Get $30 Premium Picks Credit + Exclusive Offers
Subscribe Now
Avalanche Dominate at Ball Arena
Colorado comes into this contest at 37-9-9 overall and an outstanding 21-3-4 at home. The Avalanche recently defeated San Jose 4-2 and Detroit 5-0, while also dropping games to Detroit 2-0, Montreal 7-3, and Ottawa 5-2. Despite those losses, their home performance has been elite all season.
The Avalanche are averaging 3.84 goals per game while allowing just 2.42 goals against per contest. They generate a league-best 34.1 shots per game and limit opponents to 26.7, showcasing dominant puck possession. Their power play has scored 27 goals at a 15.1% rate, while their penalty kill stands strong at 84.7%. Like Minnesota, Colorado has not allowed a short-handed goal this season.
Colorado’s biggest strength is their shot differential and defensive structure. They control pace, sustain offensive zone time, and limit quality chances against. At home, they have consistently overwhelmed opponents with speed and pressure.
Minnesota Wild vs Colorado Avalanche Pick
Wild vs Avalanche Pick
- Pick: Colorado Avalanche Moneyline
While Minnesota is riding a five-game winning streak, Colorado’s dominance at home and superior goal differential give them the edge. With a 21-3-4 record at Ball Arena and one of the best defensive profiles in the league, the Avalanche are difficult to fade in this spot.
Wild vs Avalanche Total Pick
- Pick: Over 6 Goals
I’m leaning toward the over in this matchup. Minnesota has been scoring at a high rate during its current streak, and Colorado averages nearly four goals per game. With two dynamic offenses and efficient power plays, this game has the ingredients for a high-scoring affair.
Final Score Prediction: Avalanche 4, Wild 3
This prediction was written before the completion of game play on Wednesday.
Never Tried Picks and Parlays? Now Is Your Chance
- Get your first daily picks package for ONLY $1 using coupon code BUCK
- If the pick loses, we credit your account with 3 Flex Picks
- If the pick wins, we still give you 1 Flex Pick on the house
- Win or lose, you walk away ahead. One dollar. No catch.
Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back if your First Bet Does Not Win
New Users – Bet $5 Get $200 in Bet Reset Tokens for 5 Days
New DraftKings Customers: Spend $5+ Get $200 in Bonuses Instantly!
