from Rob Vollman at NHL.com,

They are locked in a two-team race for the final Western Conference position in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. They are both seven points back of the Nashville Predators, who have 75 points in 64 games, for the next highest playoff position and eight points ahead of the Arizona Coyotes and the Vancouver Canucks, who are tied for No. 10 in the Western Conference with 60 points apiece.

Colorado made the greater push at the NHL Trade Deadline, acquiring defenseman Eric Gelinas and forwards Shawn Matthias and Mikkel Boedker, while giving up Alex Tanguay, two prospects, and two draft picks. Minnesota's only significant move was to acquire David Jones from the Calgary Flames for goalie Niklas Backstrom and a sixth-round pick in the 2016 NHL Draft.

Statistically, the Wild are a stronger team in terms of defensive play and puck possession; the Avalanche have the edge on special teams, the shootout, and many of the intangibles.

Minnesota's Advantage: Defense and Puck Possession

Minnesota's two greatest advantages over Colorado are achieved practically by default. Statistically, the Avalanche rank near the bottom of the League defensively and in terms of puck possession.

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