Coach Bob Hartley's contract extension means one less worry for Lacroix. More impressive is that on Feb. 1 he had just nine goals. The Avalanche are riding the crest of an eight-game winning streak to end the regular season. The divisional crown. They've won six division titles in a row.
Depth is a plus.
Besides an infusion of young talent, players like Adam Deadmarsh, Jon Klemm, Aaron Miller, Shjon Podein and Stephane Yelle add needed grit and character. Center Joe Sakic's contract status will loom large. He's set to become an unrestricted free agent after the 2000-01 season unless Lacroix can get something done. The sting flummoxed Hartley. Should the team struggle at any point this season, keep an eye on how the relationship holds up.