Coming off a lengthy Christmas break, the Utah Hockey Club is ready to get back to work against its divisional rivals in a nationally broadcast game.

The Utah Hockey Club (16-12-6) are dealing with five players on the injury report heading into their Friday, December 27 matchup with the Colorado Avalanche (21-15) at Delta Center, which starts

(Bethany Baker | The Salt Lake Tribune) Utah Hockey Club defenseman Olli Maatta (2) looks to pass the puck as Utah Hockey Club center Clayton Keller (9) looks on and Edmonton Oilers defenseman Mattias Ekholm (14) defends during the game at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City on Friday, Nov. 29, 2024.

The Utah Hockey Club’s last two regulation losses have now come at the hands of the Dallas Stars following Monday night’s 3-2 loss at home. An insufficient effort in the second period was Utah HC’s demise. Outside of that, it was as evenly matched as any game.

A hot streak throughout December has got the Utah Hockey Club back into playoff contention. What should they be wishing for this Christmas?

Utah Hockey Club head coach Andre Tourigny stands behind his bench during the third period of an NHL hockey game against the Pittsburgh Penguins, Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, in Pittsburgh. Utah won 6-1. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)