The Colorado Avalanche suffered a disappointing 5-2 loss to the Ottawa Senators on Wednesday at the Canadian Tire Centre. The defeat, which came as the Avalanche were limping towards the Olympic break, highlighted several areas of concern for the team. Here are three key takeaways from the game:

1. Offensive Inconsistency and a Flat Performance

The Avalanche struggled mightily on offense, particularly in the first two periods. They managed a meager 17 shots on goal for the entire game, with only eight coming in the first 40 minutes. The team looked uninspired and lacked urgency, failing to generate sustained pressure in the offensive zone. According to forward Parker Kelly, the team "couldn't even get sustained (offensive) zone time to get shots". Head coach Jared Bednar described the team's performance as "flat," noting a lack of movement and poor execution. Key offensive players like Martin Necas, Nathan MacKinnon, Brock Nelson, and Artturi Lehkonen were largely ineffective, combining for just one shot on goal. While Colorado picked up the pace in the third period, it proved to be too late to mount a comeback.

2. Defensive Lapses and Quick Responses

The Avalanche defense had its share of struggles, allowing the Senators to capitalize on scoring opportunities. Nick Cousins opened the scoring for Ottawa at 3:21 of the second period. Although Parker Kelly tied the game at 14:05 of the second period, the Senators responded just 17 seconds later with a goal from Ridly Greig. Claude Giroux extended Ottawa's lead early in the third period. While Valeri Nichushkin brought the Avalanche within one goal at 3:30 of the third period, the Senators ultimately sealed the victory with two empty-net goals from Brady Tkachuk and Tim Stutzle.

3. Special Teams and Missed Opportunities

Despite killing all three penalties they faced, the Avalanche did not receive a single power play opportunity throughout the game. The failure to draw penalties limited their chances to generate offense and gain momentum. The absence of key players like Gabriel Landeskog, Devon Toews, and Ross Colton due to injuries further impacted the team's performance. Goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood made 18 saves but didn't receive much help from the team.

The Avalanche, with a record of 35-7-9, have been inconsistent recently, alternating between good and bad games. The team will need to address their offensive struggles, tighten up defensively, and find more consistency as they push towards the playoffs. Their next opportunity to bounce back will be against the Montreal Canadiens on Thursday.