Football is all the buzz in Denver right now, but even though it’s still 90-plus degrees out Colorado Avalanche hockey is way closer than you probably realize.

We’re a mere 20 days away from the first game of the new year.

Yes, it’ll only be a preseason contest against the Ducks, but it’s at Pepsi Center and the crew is already getting ready to go.

Look what went down yesterday.

The ice is getting painted!

https://twitter.com/AvsIceGirls/status/638450079867604993

Hey, it’s not exactly the most exciting step in the world, but certainly a necessary one.

And a good reminder we’re very close to playing hockey again.

Preseason, as stated above, gets going September 22. It counts for real October 8 at home against the Wild.

Football will always be the hot topic in Denver, let’s hope we’re still talking about hockey next June.