Granted, Colorado is the worst team in the NHL. But the Avalanche have been playing better lately and catch San Jose carrying a high fatigue rating and in a vulnerable spot. So at this huge 'dog price the Avalanche are worth a peanut.

The teams just met in San Jose on Saturday. The Avalanche actually outplayed the Sharks, but lost 3-2 in overtime. Colorado played well in its previous game, too, a 2-1 road loss to Anaheim on Thursday.

"I think that we're doing certain things better now than we have at any point during the season," Colorado coach Jared Bednar was quoted as saying.

The Sharks are in action for the fifth time in eight days. They aren't going to be helped playing in Denver's high altitude. The Sharks also have a more challenging road game against Winnipeg on Tuesday. So that could mean a backup goalie starting for San Jose and a reduction in minutes for certain key players.

The Avalanche have short revenge going. They aren't going to lack for motivation.