Cale Makar makes a very bold prediction for the Avs' upcoming season

"We know that we have the capability of potentially doing it again," said Makar on the Avs' ability to repeat this season. Makar said that a big reason why he believes they can repeat is because of the team's competitiveness saying, "We have so much of that on our team, especially Nathan MacKinnon. ... Any time you have competitive guys together, it makes you want to play even better, and that's kind of the way our team rolled."

Makar also credited GM Joe Sakic and the rest of the front office for the players they brought in at the trade deadline last season. "I think for us this year, one of the key things was our trade-deadline acquisitions," he said. "Bringing in Artturi Lehkonen, Andrew Cogliano, Josh Manson, and Nico Sturm.. just absolutely incredible pieces that, honestly, helped us bring home the championship."

The Avs were able to re-sign Manson, Lehkonen and Cogliano, along with Valeri Nichushkin, which will help soften the blow of losing Nazem Kadri and maintain the depth that was so key for them during the playoffs last year. Makar on the other hand, will look to build on his 28-goal, 86-point Norris Trophy campaign and at just 23 years old, should have no problems doing so. Makar also added 29 points in 20 playoff games.