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Hockey is a constant pursuit of controlling a chaotic, unpredictable environment.
The Colorado Avalanche is fortunate to start this season with three of the best players in the world — a base of stability that is the envy of 31 other NHL clubs.
Nathan MacKinnon, the reigning most valuable player, is at the peak of his powers. Cale Makar, a perennial Norris Trophy contender, might still be getting better at age 25. And Mikko Rantanen, as steady as they come on the wing, is fresh off back-to-back 100-point seasons.