News Avalanche Team Notes

[Colorado Avalanche]

NHL 25 Prediction: Avalanche shuts out Dallas 3-0 in Game One

Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

The Stars had more shots on goal, but Colorado was the only team that scored. Both teams also went scoreless on the power play.

If NHL 25 is correct, the Colorado Avalanche will win Game 1 of their series against the Dallas Stars on Saturday night.

The Avalanche shut out Dallas 3-0 as Nathan MacKinnon scored two goals, Cale Makar added two assists, and Mackenzie Blackwood rebounded from recent struggles to blank Dallas.

Note: Gabe Landeskog was scratched from the Colorado lineup, along with Erik Johnson and Ryan Lindgren. Jason Robertson was scratched from the Dallas lineup.

Recap

The first goal of the game came in less than a minute when Devon Toews led Colorado on the breakout and fed MacKinnon at the blue line, and the reigning MVP took care of the rest, beating Jake Oettinger with a quick wrist shot.

With 10:39 remaining in the first, Parker Kelly received a four-minute double minor for being particularly rude to Lian Bichsel. He was whistled for both cross-checking and holding. However, Dallas failed to convert on the power play.

A pair of former Avalanche players had their fair share of opportunities to find the net. Mikko Rantanen was denied by Blackwood via the blocker save, while Matt Duchene’s quick wrister with 4:16 remaining in the first was gloved.

It certainly was not due to a lack of effort from Dallas. At the end of the first, they outshot Colorado 11-6.

Both teams came out with a big head of steam to start the second period, and it was Colorado’s second line that added the next goal. Valeri Nichushkin outmuscled two Dallas defenders before feeding Jonathan Drouin in the slot, and the latter outsmarted Oettinger on the backhand to make it a 2-0 game. On the very next play, Sam Girard teed up a slapshot from the point, but Oettinger came up with the glove save.

Mikael Granlund put the Avalanche on their first power play of the game with 5:16 left in the second when he cross-checked Girard from behind. The hit caused Girard to stumble head-first into the boards. We went to the third and final period after Colorado failed to score on the man-advantage.

The Avalanche received their second power play of the night when Roope Hintz cross-checked Artturi Lehkonen to the ice with a strike to the lower back. It didn’t last though, because Drouin was also busted for holding. As a result, we saw some 4-on-4 action for a brief moment before Dallas went on the power play for about one minute and 10 seconds. Unfortunately, for the Stars, they struggled, coughing up the puck in key moments, allowing Charlie Coyle to run away with it, but he was turned away by Oettinger.

Rantanen drew a penalty with 11:02 left in the game. While carrying the puck near the blue line, he cut across the ice and tripped over Jack Drury’s stick. Those AI refs didn’t really seem to care and sent #18 to the box for two minutes. Drury gave the referees a lashing from his temporary seat but to no avail.

MacKinnon scored his second of the game with 6:34 to go when he was fed a pass from Marty Nečas. The reigning Hart Memorial trophy winner fired a wrist shot that bounced off Oettinger’s glove and back into the net, causing the netminder to fall to his backside wondering what could have been as Colorado players celebrated behind him.

And that was that. Colorado comes up with the 3-0 win.

The Stars had more shots on goal, leading that category 33-29. Blackwood stopped 33 and Oettinger saved 26 of 29 shots.

Let’s Be Honest

Back to reality, folks. Blackwood has not been playing well as of late, so a shutout just doesn’t seem like a possibility. We’re journalists and we want to be forthright. That seems like a stretch at this current moment. Dallas failed to convert on three power plays and Colorado came up on short on both of theirs. Dallas has lost their last seven games, but they still have a number of solid guys who can come through. If these teams play at their best, if these scenarios arise, a 4-2 win for Colorado seems feasible or even 3-1.

But we’ll have to wait for the real thing on Saturday when the Avalanche take on the Stars at American Airlines Center. Puck drop is at 6:30 p.m. local time.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...lanche-shuts-out-dallas-stars-3-0-in-game-one

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Open Thread: Colorado Avalanche vs. Dallas Stars, Round 1 Game 1 (6:30 p.m. MT)

Photo by Michael Martin/NHLI via Getty Images

It’s finally a Colorado Avalanche playoff game day!

After finishing up the 82-game NHL regular season earlier in the week, the Colorado Avalanche begin their quest for the Stanley Cup tonight as they take on the Dallas Stars in a first-round matchup. These two teams met three times in the regular season, with Colorado winning two of those games and Dallas winning one.

Game One. #GoAvsGo | #BuiltDifferent pic.twitter.com/RQlBORXYIu

— x - Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) April 19, 2025​

Colorado Avalanche​

After a very long 82-game season, it’s finally time for the Avs to do this for real and play for the Stanley Cup. They’ll face an all-too familiar opponent in the first round, as they take on the Dallas Stars. This current version of the Colorado Avalanche looks as equipped as ever to go on a deep run this year. And there’s another player adding to that depth by being an option for this Avs team, and that player is, of course, Gabe Landeskog.

Landeskog of course did a conditioning stint with the Colorado Eagles in the AHL earlier this month, and he will be an option for all of the first round of the playoffs, making this current team that much deeper than they already are.

Jared Bednar just told us that Gabe Landeskog is an option for all of Round 1

— Jesse Montano (@jessemontano_) April 18, 2025​

Projected Lineup​

Artturi Lehkonen - Nathan MacKinnon - Martin Necas
Jonathan Drouin - Brock Nelson - Valeri Nichushkin
Joel Kiviranta - Charlie Coyle - Ross Colton
Parker Kelly - Jack Drury - Logan O’Connor

Devon Toews - Cale Makar
Samuel Girard - Josh Manson
Erik Johnson - Ryan Lindgren

Dallas Stars​

While Colorado has gotten healthy, and has the potential to get even healthier and deeper with the potential return of Landeskog, Dallas has unfortunately gone in the opposite direction toward the end of the season. Not only have they lost seven straight games, but they’ve also suffered some key injuries throughout the season, and to end the year.

On top of missing Miro Heiskanen, the Stars will also be starting this series without Jason Robertson, as he suffered an injury in Dallas’ last game of the season against the Nashville Predators. Despite those injuries, this Stars team is not one to take lightly at all, they’re still going to make life hard for Colorado, and they’re still a very deep team.

Jason Robertson (lower body) is week-to-week, per Pete DeBoer.

He won’t be playing in Game 1.

— Lia Assimakopoulos (@Lassimak) April 18, 2025​

Projected Lineup​

Mikael Granlund - Roope Hintz - Evgenii Dadonov
Mason marchment - Matt Duchene - Tyler Seguin
Jamie Benn - Wyatt Johnston - Mikko Rantanen
Oskar Back - Sam Steel - Mavrik Bourque

Esa Lindell - Cody Ceci
Thomas Harley - Ilya Lyubushkin
Lian Bichsel - Alex Petrovic

Goaltenders​

For tonight’s game, and likely the larger part of the series, it’ll be Mackenzie Blackwood and Jake Oettinger in net for Colorado and Dallas respectively. It’ll be really interesting to see how Blackwood plays in this series, as he’s never played playoff hockey before. Of course you need him to be good, but that’s kind of all you need him to be. Colorado’s good enough and deep enough this year where they just need a goalie to be good enough, in my opinon anyway. Oettinger on the other hand has a very well-established playoffs track record and experience. You can’t make life easy on Oettinger, and need to make life difficult on him in order to beat him.

Follow along in the comments below!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...he-vs-dallas-stars-round-1-game-1-6-30-p-m-mt

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

MacKinnon scores two, Blackwood sensational as Avalanche win 5-1 to open playoffs

Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images

It was a close game throughout, until Colorado scored three goals in just over four minutes to hand the Dallas Stars a brutal defeat.

Home ice advantage didn’t amount to much.

The Colorado Avalanche smashed the Dallas Stars on Saturday night in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series at American Airlines Center with a 5-1 victory. They now lead 1-0 in their best-of-seven series.

In what was a closely contested matchup throughout the game, the Avs held onto a 2-1 lead late in the third period until they stepped on the gas and embarrassed their adversaries, scoring three goals in just over four minutes, forcing droves of Stars fans to head for the exits.

Nathan MacKinnon scored two goals, including the game-winner. Artturi Lehkonen, Devon Toews, and Charlie Coyle also scored for Colorado. And in his first-career Stanley Cup playoff game, Mackenzie Blackwood was outstanding, stopping 23 of the 24 shots he faced.

On the other side of the ice, Jake Oettinger stopped 19 of 23 shots. Roope Hintz scored the lone goal for Dallas on the power play.

First Period​

Mason Marchment and Wayne Johnston were penalized early on for tripping Cale Makar, putting Colorado on a 5-on-3 power play. However, Dallas killed off the penalty.

With 12:11 left in the period, Josh Manson was sent to the box for bear-hugging Matt Duchene, who responded by throwing Manson down to the ice.

After the Avalanche killed off that penalty, their first line tried to get something going. Marty Nečas and MacKinnon attempted to link up on an opportunity, but Oettinger turned them away.

With less than seven minutes remaining, the neck-and-neck action continued. Dallas tried to get their breakout going, but their passes were often intercepted. Nichuskin also tried to get creative with the bank pass, but Dallas was first to the puck just past the blue line.

Colorado nearly took a 1-0 lead with 1:32 left on the board, but Nichushkin was just a hair late on the rebound, and Oettinger scooped it up in the nick of time.

At the end of 20 minutes, the game remained scoreless, and Colorado held the advantage in shots on goal (11-8).

Second Period​

Colorado went on the PK for the second time early on in the second frame when Ryan Lindgren shot the puck over the glass for a delay of game penalty.

With 10:30 remaining in the period, Lehkonen broke a scoreless tie when he punched in a rebound to give the Avalanche a 1-0 lead. Officials reviewed the goal to determine whether Lehkonen made an intentional kicking motion, and the goal was confirmed to be legal. Lehkonen technically did make a kicking motion, but it was after he was checked from behind. It was a very fortunate bounce and call on Lehkonen’s first goal in 17 games.

A goal that is both greasy and gorgeous. #GoAvsGo | #BuiltDifferent pic.twitter.com/TdV7Ljxj27

— x - Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) April 20, 2025​

Dallas made a big mistake when Hintz was given a four-minute double minor for high-sticking with 4:40 left in the frame when he nailed MacKinnon in the nose behind the Colorado net. There was a brief delay as officials met while the medical team wiped blood off MacKinnon’s face and plugged his nose with tissues.

A little blood was no problem for MacKinnon, who scored on the power play to give the Avalanche a 2-0 lead.

Third Period​

To start, 12:56 into the third, Toews found the net when he redirected a shot from Manson to give Colorado a 3-1 lead. Manson wristed one from the point, and Toews was in prime position for the backhand tip-in, an absolutely sensational goal.

Dallas subsequently decided to pull Oettinger with over three minutes left in the game, which was unusually early. We saw why that typically isn’t performed, as MacKinnon scored on the empty net. Charlie Coyle added another insurance marker 11 seconds later to seal the deal.

Ross Colton​

Ross Colton exited the game after sustaining an injury. He played just 7:04 and had one shift in the third period. In the post-game press conference, Jared Bednar confirmed that Colton suffered a lower-body injury but had no further updates. We should have more information about his status by tomorrow.

Takeaways ​

The guys we expected to play well did their job, but there were also a ton of surprises. Blackwood had such a rough finish to the regular season that some even questioned whether it was a smart idea to have him start this game. It also seemed during practice that he was still struggling, and backup Scott Wedgewood was showing him up in some aspects. Perhaps Blackwood read into what was being said on social media because, from the start of this game, this man chose violence. This was a Blackwood that we haven’t seen in several months. This was MasterClass material from the former 42nd overall pick.

Mackenzie Blackwood might be the first goalie in the post-mask invention era to have missing teeth... so @BizNasty2point0 and @WayneGretzky made sure to chirp him about it pic.twitter.com/796rFaLYy5

— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) April 20, 2025​

MacKinnon was also on the receiving end of adversity when he was high-sticked in the mouth by Hintz. There wasn’t a lot of blood, but enough that he needed medical attention. While most people would be on the ground crying for help, MacKinnon couldn’t wait to get back on the ice. Within moments, he scored on the power play to give the Avalanche the lead. When you have a guy like that leading your team, it pushes everyone else to exhibit that same mental toughness and the grit that comes with being a championship team. Speaking of toughness, you think that’s the end of it? Just wait until Gabriel Landeskog is ready. This is only the beginning. The Avalanche made a statement tonight.

Next Game

Game 2 of the opening round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs takes place Monday as the Avalanche carry a 1-0 series lead against the Stars at American Airlines Center. A win for Colorado would give the Avalanche even more momentum as the series heads back to Ball Arena for Game 3. Puck drop for Game 2 is at 7:30 p.m. local time.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...s-colorado-avalanche-win-5-1-to-open-playoffs

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Opinion: Current playoff format reinvigorates rivalries, and that’s why it should stick around

Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Some want to see a new playoff format but I say keep things as they are. Just look at the round one matchups!

The NHL playoff bracket is set, as teams and their respective fan bases gear up for the first round. Fans in Toronto, Ottawa, Colorado, Dallas, Edmonton, Los Angeles, and Florida are ready to face familiar and not-so-likeable foes. That's good for hockey, great entertainment, and, inevitably, the right way to do this playoff thing! Were there some less-than-watchable games in the last week or two of the season due to predetermined outcomes? Sure, but I'll take the good with the bad, seeing as the good comes in the form of renewed rivalries. Like a lot of them. I will put these matchups on a silver platter to prove my point.

The Battle of Ontario​

Let's start with the series that major hackey media will cover most intensely and look at Toronto vs. Ottawa, which will begin in Toronto. Sure, it's maybe not the tightest matchup, with Toronto being the second-best team in the East. Still, we all know how Toronto and Ontario, for that matter, do that hockey—with a crazed sense of importance and an ever-growing fanatic response.

Toronto has yet to make it past the second round, something we are familiar with in Colorado, and Ottawa with their netminder has the potential to upset the Leafs. I'm intrigued.

The wait is over ️

For the first time since 2004, the Battle of Ontario returns in the #StanleyCup Playoffs!

Game 1 coverage begins TONIGHT at 6:30pm ET on Sportsnet pic.twitter.com/c7bFe9VU6u

— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) April 20, 2025​

Thunder Cat Series​

Speaking of geographical significance in a playoff series, the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning present a matchup that should feature seriously high-quality hockey. The Lightning have been striking under the radar this season, and the Panthers are defending champs.

PLAYOFF BOUND ️ #GoBolts pic.twitter.com/lJaKmhaTly

— x - Tampa Bay Lightning (@TBLightning) April 5, 2025​

Animosity already exists between these clubs, with a character like Matthew Thachuk involved, and this is likely the season when Kucherov wins his Hart Trophy. It shouldn't surprise you, but I think MacKinnon should get back-to-back MVPs. Nonetheless, I wouldn't be surprised if the team representing the East in the Stanley Cup Final emerges from this round one series in the Sunshine State.

Florida Panthers star Matthew Tkachuk is trending towards a first-round return.

“He's not that far off. If he's not [ready,] he's very close,” Paul Maurice said on the @JoeRoseShow. “We're not missing this by two weeks.”https://t.co/7rEWYi4r8X

— Colby Guy (@ColbyDGuy) April 14, 2025​

Kings of Oil Country​

Let's examine the team that lost to the Panthers in the 2024 Stanley Cup Final and their subsequent first-round matchup against the Los Angeles Kings. Now, before you say, "This matchup proves you are wrong; we've seen these two teams repeatedly," Let's remember what builds a nasty and entertaining rivalry—frequent high-stakes matchups. Like the Avs, Red Wings, and Dallas Stars of old and new?

NEW YEAR, FAMILIAR FOES

The Kings will face the Oilers in the first round of the #StanleyCup Playoffs pic.twitter.com/UvqRvWPXtI

— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) April 13, 2025​

Getting the same matchup stokes the flames that breathe life into rivalries, and this one is already heating up as the two teams met earlier in the week and already gave some locker room material in game 81 of the regular season.

Corey Perry responds to Phillip Danault saying the Oilers played their B Squad and tried to hurt the Kings all night #LetsGoOilers | #GoKingsGo pic.twitter.com/kVfSNqjVMg

— Missin Curfew (@MissinCurfew) April 15, 2025​

The Blizzard in Big D​

Last but certainly not least is the Avalanche vs. Stars matchup. I've said it before, and I'll repeat it: this matchup has storylines abound. From the Dallas Stars' angle, they face the team they beat in the second round last year, but their opponent looks different this time around.

Artturi Lehkonen when asked if he texted longtime friend Mikko Rantanen ahead of the series:

"No." pic.twitter.com/VTI3vkkJm7

— DNVR Avalanche (@DNVR_Avalanche) April 15, 2025​

The Mikko Rantanen trade saga landed him in the heart of Texas, which is likely salt in the wound for the Avs, who will have to get revenge this time. As countless Avalanche fans have told me, Jamie Benn is among the most disliked players in the league. Mason Marchment and his head-snapping embellishments have made him climb the list, and there is Matt Duchene.

This isn’t hockey.

I hope the refs saw the replay. #GoAvsGo

pic.twitter.com/IV9kGNUj16

— Adrian Hernandez (@AdoHernandez27) November 30, 2024​

Josh Manson got the best of Jamie Benn way back when, and if Gabe Landeskog makes his comeback to the tune of his old ways, he will be involved in the extracurricular one way or another. Fans on each side of this central division playoff will have plenty to vent about when it's all said and done. I promise.

pic.twitter.com/qvrILSAj7I

— Barry (@BarryBerenstain) April 14, 2025​

Good start for the Avalanche last night, who got a stellar performance out of Mackenzie Blackwood in his first-ever playoff appearance! Colorado has secured a 1-0 series lead, and the Dallas Stars have now lost eight consecutive games, and eight consecutive game ones.

That’s a dub! #BuiltDifferent #GoAvsGo | @MileHighHockey | @MHH_LAB pic.twitter.com/GMrRVhrG09

— Adrian Hernandez (@AdoHernandez27) April 20, 2025​

Closing Argument​

I've done enough opinion pieces to be prepared for a rebuttal, and I know what one will be for sure. "Don't you want these matchups to happen in the later rounds to add higher stakes?" Answer: No.

There's only room for 16 teams in this league's tournament of champions, and I'm not a proponent of adding more. With that, you would only get two of these matchups in a conference final. The way this is set up, the first round will be so jam-packed with excitement that it will drive viewership for the later rounds. Once 28 fan bases are out of it, you must have told a great story to keep them around for the next two rounds.

Everyone's got their eyes on the same prize

The #StanleyCup Playoffs Bracket Challenge is live now! Sign up today at https://t.co/t9LR4MSvUx

( : @GrantGruenhaupt) pic.twitter.com/RBdEhmVydA

— NHL (@NHL) April 19, 2025​

Some want to add teams to the bracket and go back to the one vs. eight traditional format. I’m not sold. Look at what the expanded playoff and play-in tournament have done to the NBA's regular season viewership numbers. In the NHL, the play-in starts in October, and you will likely have to beat the best team in your division and then the other best team in your conference to earn a shot at hoisting the Stanley Cup. That's a good thing. I say we keep the regular season important. With things the way they are now, we get more of what makes hockey so watchable: High-stakes competition tinged with entrenched rivalries that demand the best from the world's top hockey players both physically and emotionally.

Recent NBA viewership data reveals that LeBron's last Championship in 2020 is the WORST viewership rated Finals over the last 30 years!

Indeed in fact it was so low, that the city of Los Angeles decided against ever holding a parade to celebrate it. pic.twitter.com/2nxjt6MfPF

— NBA Strife ツ (@strifeomg) April 6, 2025​

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...ivalries-and-thats-why-it-should-stick-around

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Open Thread: Colorado Avalanche vs. Dallas Stars, Round 1 Game 2 (7:30 p.m. MT)

Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images

It’s a Colorado Avalanche playoff game day!

The Colorado Avalanche stormed into Dallas and turned a close Game 1 into a 5-1 blowout with a dominant third period. Artturi Lehkonen kicked off the scoring in the second period with a whacky goal off his foot while falling, and the Avs never looked back. Nathan MacKinnon added a power-play tally and an empty-netter, but the true star of the show was goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood, who rose to the playoff occasion in a way doubters weren’t sure he could. Can he bring that same level of play to Game 2? We’re about to find out!

Game Two. #GoAvsGo | #BuiltDifferent

— Colorado Avalanche (Bot) (@notavs.bsky.social) 2025-04-21T14:18:37.768Z

Colorado Avalanche​

The Avs sure looked every part of the Stanley Cup contender that fans and media have hyped them up to be in Game 1, dominating the underlying metrics and the scoreboard against a very good but undermanned Dallas Stars team.

The only real knock on the Avs in Game 1 would be the one thing that’s plagued them from the start of the season - injuries. Ross Colton left the game after a 15-second shift in the third period and did not return due to a lower-body injury. No update has been given on his status, but it seems likely he’ll sit out at least one game to nurse his LBI.

Josh Manson returned from injury and gave the whole Josh Manson experience - rock solid defense, some big hits, a dumb penalty, and a beautiful assist on Devon Toews’ third goal that put the Avalanche firmly in the driver’s seat to close out the win. An impressive return!

Also impressive - the fourth line of Parker Kelly, Jack Drury, and Logan O’Connor absolutely ate the Stars all night. They gave up zero shots on goal, zero scoring chances, and zero expected goals. ZERO! That’s dominance. Sure, they didn’t score, but they easily could have on their three high-danger chances. It’s safe to assume that after a game that good, they’ll be sticking together despite the injury to Colton.

Projected Lineup​

Artturi Lehkonen - Nathan MacKinnon - Martin Necas
Jonathan Drouin - Brock Nelson - Valeri Nichushkin
Joel Kiviranta - Charlie Coyle - GABRIEL LANDESKOG!!!!
Parker Kelly - Jack Drury - Logan O’Connor

Devon Toews - Cale Makar
Ryan Lindgren - Josh Manson
Samuel Girard - Erik Johnson

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...he-vs-dallas-stars-round-1-game-2-7-30-p-m-mt

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Morning Flurries: Bardakov signs ELC with Colorado Avalanche

Photo by Maksim Konstantinov/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

One more prospect has put pen to paper.

Between Game 1 and 2, the Colorado Avalanche took care of a bit of business, tying up some loose ends by signing 24-year-old Russian forward prospect Zakhar Bardakov to an Entry Level Contract which begins next season. Due to his age, the deal can only be for one year, and then Bardakov will become a Restricted Free Agent in the summer of 2026.

We have signed forward Zakhar Bardakov to a one-year entry-level contract for the 2025-26 season. pic.twitter.com/rtuQhPSYIa

— x - Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) April 20, 2025​

Bardakov was on the radar for a contract ever since he was the trade return for Kurtis MacDermid from the New Jersey Devils in the 2024 trade deadline swap. The former 2021 seventh round pick proceeded to have his best year yet with SKA St. Petersburg in the KHL, putting up 35 points and 17 goals in 53 games. Due to the physical nature Bardakov plays with it wasn’t a surprise that he was out of the lineup for a couple stretches with injuries but finished strong with a goal and assist in six playoff games with SKA.

PuckPedia

At 6-foot-2 and 209 lbs, Bardakov has the size to go along with the net front presence and physical style of play that the Avalanche prefer in their bottom six. The breakout in production also shows the center might have enough skill to hang in the NHL. As always, with older prospects, it’s going to be about commitment more than development. Colorado has a long history of getting Russians to come over and sign a contract, but also a reputation for having them leave not long after. Will Zakhar Bardakov break the mold?

“It’s my last real chance to make it to the NHL.”

Zakhar Bardakov turns down SKA to sign with the Avalanche. With a strong KHL season and a two-way role in sight, the 24-year-old is betting big on Colorado—and himself.

via @DariaTuboltseva https://t.co/8J7TDZs7Ds

— RG (@TheRGMedia) April 21, 2025​

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...es-bardakov-signs-elc-with-colorado-avalanche

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Recap: Colorado blows third period lead, falls 4-3 in overtime to Dallas in Game 2

Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images

The win for Dallas gives them the series split heading to Colorado.

After a successful opening game in the first round of the playoffs, the Colorado Avalanche were hoping to make it a perfect trip to Dallas. It looked that would be the case as Colorado held a lead going into the third period but Dallas evened the score before nearly a full extra frame was needed for Colin Blackwell to score the game winner to give Dallas the 4-3 victory and even the series 1-1.

The Game

After some cruel teasing it, in fact, was not Gabe Landeskog returns night as the game began late on ESPNU without the Avalanche captain in the lineup. That meant the national audience didn’t get to see the Avalanche get the game’s first power play and score. Nathan MacKinnon wasted no time by converting at 8:48 on a perfectly placed snipe.

Right before the end of the first period Dallas would answer back on a power play goal of their own from Tyler Seguin at 19:07. Colorado controlled most of the period with a 10-8 shot advantage but the game was tied 1-1 after 20 minutes of play.

It was an eventful start to the second period with a go-ahead goal for Dallas from Thomas Harley at 3:40 but Jack Drury evened the score at 2-2 just a minute later off of a feed from Logan O’Connor.

The rest of the period was a penalty-fest with four power plays including three consecutive minor calls against Colorado. Dallas couldn’t cash in and naturally the Avalanche took the play the other way after the last penalty had expired and O’Connor got a goal of his own at 19:27 to put the Avalanche up 3-2 with one period of play left.

In that third period the Avalanche tried to get away with an old fashioned turtle where they generated just 15% of the expected goals share and it bit them as Evgeni Dadonov evened the score at 10:13. Colorado received a late power play when Mikko Rantanen was called for hooking but there was little urgency and no score which brought this pivotal second game to overtime.

In the extra frame Dallas controlled a lot of the play but were also forced to dump the puck in on many of their possessions. But slowly the tide turned in their direction with traffic in front of the net Dallas netted the game winner from Colin Blackwell at 17:46. Dallas takes the game 4-3 and the series is tied 1-1.

Takeaways​

A wise man once said you learn more about your team in a loss and this is a great time for the Avalanche to reflect on what went right and wrong in this game as they let a lead slip away with a lack of urgency in the third period. Good news is that the team can learn some hard lessons with a win in Dallas and series split in their back pocket as they head back home for a pair of games.

Micro roster decisions and bottom of the lineup players can make a difference in a game and series as tight as this one is shaping up to be. Colin Blackwell was a scratch in Game 1 and scores the overtime goal tonight, meanwhile Miles Wood comes in for an injured Ross Colton and was on the ice for three of Dallas’ goals on the evening including a critical turnover on the game winning goal and a 12% expected goals. Every roster player matters.

Upcoming​

Game 3 at Ball Arena where everyone is expecting something special to happen. Puck drop is at 7:30 p.m. MT (probably really 7:52 p.m.) on Wednesday, April 23rd.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...lls-4-3-in-overtime-to-dallas-stars-in-game-2

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Game 3 Preview: We Must Protect This House!

Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images

The Colorado Avalanche return home tied 1-1 with the Dallas Stars, and need more top six offense to win at Ball Arena.

Credit to the Dallas Stars, down a goal in the third period of Game 2, they refused to fly to Denver without getting at least one win at home. That game may not have ended the way Colorado Avalanche fans wanted, but it was absolutely the most exciting hockey game the Avs have played in a while — they just needed to win to make it even better. Back in Ball Arena with some exciting reinforcements likely returning to the lineup, they'll look to dial back the back-and-forth excitement a bit and win this one clean.

Game Three. #GoAvsGo | #BuiltDifferent

— Colorado Avalanche (Bot) (@notavs.bsky.social) 2025-04-23T14:20:51.434Z

Colorado Avalanche

So far, the Avs have two goals at 5v5 from their top nine forward group, the Artturi Lehkonen kick goal and Charlie Coyle's garbage timer - both in Game 1. That's not going to cut it.

On the flip side, the fourth line followed up a dominant defensive Game 1 with two goals in Game 2. Counting on them to continue bringing the offense like that is ill-advised, but with the way Logan O'Connor is playing right now, that group should be able to continue making a difference.

Of course. There's one major storyline everyone knows about Colorado, and one major question everyone's asking: Is Gabriel Landeskog returning for the home playoff opener? According to Jared Bednar, it looks likely.

Jared Bednar via @AltitudeSR on Gabe Landeskog playing tonight: There’s a good chance he’s gonna play tonight! #GoAvsGo

— Adrian Hernandez (@adohernandez27.bsky.social) 2025-04-23T14:02:22.272Z

After the roster fakeout in Game 2, probably best to believe the Landy return when you actually see it happen - but it does feel like tonight is the night. Miles Wood played fine in his role on the third line until a brutal turnover and defensive lapse led to the OT winner for the Stars, and he would likely be swapped out for the Captain if he does indeed return.

On the backend, Erik Johnson could get a night off to make room for Sam Malinski to slot in next to Ryan Lindgren, as EJ's legs looked a little slow even before the OT. Still a useful player, but this elder statesman version of EJ needs some nights off to stay effective.

Projected Lineup​

Artturi Lehkonen - Nathan MacKinnon - Martin Necas
Jonathan Drouin - Brock Nelson - Valeri Nichushkin
Parker Kelly - Jack Drury - Logan O'Connor
Gabriel Landeskog - Charlie Coyle - Joel Kiviranta

Devon Toews - Cale Makar
Ryan Lindgren - Sam Malinski
Samuel Girard - Josh Manson

Dallas Stars​

Game 2 was Dallas' best effort in about a month, snapped an eight-game losing skid, and drew the series even. They did it by getting pucks in behind the Avs' defense, winning the ensuing board battles, and then putting the puck into the crease area and crashing the net hard. Those are dirty, hard-working, playoff goals, and if they can keep dictating the physical play in all areas of the ice, they have a good chance to pick up a win or two in Denver.

Tyler Seguin looked good in his second game back from a long injury absence, and Sam Steel led the team in points with two assists. The stars for the Stars still haven't made a huge impact on this series, as Colorado has largely contained Roope Hintz and expats Matt Duchene and Mikko Rantanen. A breakout game from any of those three would be a big boost for Big D.

On the back end, Lian Bichsel made his presence felt throughout game two after the whistle and was decent before it, too, as he and his partner, Alex Petrovic, surprisingly led the blueline in possession metrics. Thomas Harley scored one goal, and the rest of the backend was quietly effective, which is exactly what Dallas is looking for from its defense without Miro Heiskanen.

Speaking of Heiskanen, he has been skating on his own but not yet participating in any practice, meaning his return does not appear to be imminent. Jason Robertson has not skated yet, so he is even further away.

Projected Lineup​

Mikael Granlund - Roope Hintz - Evgenii Dadonov
Mason Marchment - Matt Duchene - Tyler Seguin
Jamie Benn - Wyatt Johnston - Mikko Rantanen
Oskar Back - Sam Steel - Colin Blackwell

Thomas Harley - Ilya Lyubushkin
Esa Lindell - Cody Ceci
Lian Bichsel - Alex Petrovic

Goaltending

Mackenzie Blackwood returned to Earth a bit after a dominant Game 1 with a good Game 2 that just wasn't quite good enough. Jake Oettinger played a solid game as well, but wasn't tested as much as his Colorado foil. Both will keep their nets in Game 3.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025/4/23/24414829/game-3-preview-we-must-protect-this-house

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Avs blow third period lead again, lose in overtime as Dallas takes series lead

Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

6 power plays with 0 conversions. The Colorado Avalanche are a mess.

It’s been back-to-back overtime games, blown third-period leads, and tragic finishes for the Colorado Avalanche.

There’s no way around it. This was as bad as it gets.

Despite the Avalanche beginning the overtime period with 3:21 left on the power play, they failed to convert, as they did all night. That allowed Mason Marchment to feed Tyler Seguin for the 2-1 game-winner. The Stars have taken a 2-1 series lead and have collected four consecutive playoff victories at Ball Arena.

Avalanche captain Gabe Landeskog returned to the lineup for the first time since Game 6 of the 2022 Stanley Cup Finals against the Tampa Bay Lightning. He played great and was one of a few players who played with a sense of urgency on the ice. The other was Valeri Nichushkin, who scored the lone goal for Colorado on a beautiful individual effort. However, the rest of the game was quite the opposite of beautiful. Morose and depressing would be a great way to describe it.

pic.twitter.com/PuA8kIuNLq

— x - Mile High Hockey (@MileHighHockey) April 24, 2025​

Mackenzie Blackwood, as he has been throughout the series, was outstanding. He stopped 26 of 28 shots while Jake Oettinger stoned 27 of 28 shots.

First Period

Both teams were penalized early. Ryan Lindgren was sent to the box on what appeared to be a very soft cross-checking call on Wyatt Johnston, and Mikko Rantanen was nailed for tripping Nichushkin.

The Avalanche struck first for a change when Nichushkin scored 8:09 into the frame on a gorgeous individual effort. With Lindgren and Rantanen still in the box, Nichushkin used a screen from Brock Nelson to penetrate the Stars’ defensive zone and beat Oettinger on a triple deke to score the first period’s lone goal. And to boot, it was the only goal for the Avalanche on a night where they should have been celebrating the return of their captain and playing their hearts out.

Valeri Nichushkin gets @Avalanche fans on their feet early with a beautiful goal! #StanleyCup

: @espn https://t.co/m0LyTCHYnH
: @Sportsnet or stream on Sportsnet+ https://t.co/4KjbdjVctF pic.twitter.com/X19PbzdY2c

— NHL (@NHL) April 24, 2025​

Colorado went on the power play late in the first when Nicklas Blackwell, the hero for Dallas in Game 1, reached in with his stick and took Nathan MacKinnon’s skates out from underneath him. The Stars killed the penalty, but Colorado had a couple of opportunities to score. Cale Makar fired a shot from the point, but it missed wide left.

At the end of the first period, Colorado held a 1-0 lead, while Dallas held the shots advantage, 14-5.

Second Period

Fifty-one seconds into the frame, Oettinger made an incredible save when Brock Nelson tried to punch in a loose puck on the right side of the goal. The sequence formulated when Samuel Girard carried the puck and attempted to pull off a wrap-around, but it trickled in front of the goal. Nelson got his stick on the puck, but Oettinger made an incredible blocker save and subsequently fell on top of the puck to prevent another rebound.

A scary moment occurred 6:08 into the second when Lian Bichsel went down to the ice after being struck by a Josh Manson shot somewhere around his ribcage. After a brief delay, Bichsel made his way to the bench. Shortly before that, Bichsel also took a vicious check into the boards from Joel Kiviranta.

The game continued to be tightly contested, as has been the case for most of the series thus far. And with it being playoff hockey, everyone was amped up and throwing series heat, including Makar, who rocked Mason Marchment with a reverse hit near the boards that rung his noggin.

Mikael Granlund heard the sound of hockey doom with 42 seconds left in the period when his quick wrister rattled off the post.

Third Period

A critical play went down with 13:12 left in the final period when Artturi Lehkonen was sent to the box for holding Todd Harley. Thus, Dallas went on the power play for the second time in the game while desperately needing a goal. It was up to Colorado’s defense to keep the puck away from the net. Were they successful? Absolutely. Dallas was held to just one shot on the power play.

Unfortunately, they went right back on the kill a few seconds later when MacKinnon was whistled for interference against Blackwell, who skated backwards right over MacKinnon’s stick and went down. On the subsequent play, Jamie Benn tied the game at one. From that point on, it was only a matter of time.

Colorado caught a break when Matt Duchene was busted for tripping Nichushkin, but they failed to convert on the power play.

The game came down to the wire, with both teams having their opportunities to break the tie. Ilya Lyubushkin drove the puck into the Colorado zone to try and get things going, but he was

With 39.5 seconds left in the game, Nelson was cut from a brutal high-stick from Mason Marchment, who was handed a four-minute double-minor. It was the second time in the game that Nelson was hurt. He took a big hit in the opening period as well, which shook him up.

Time expired with the score knotted up 1-1. And for the second straight playoff game, Dallas and Colorado went to overtime.

Overtime

The Avalanche shockingly failed to score on the double-minor power play, and the top line struggled to work together. MacKinnon and Makar failed to connect on a pass, and Makar mishandled the puck in another sequence. After Blackwood made a remarkable save, the Avs got another juicy opportunity when Oettinger was out of the net, but Artturi Lehkonen fanned on the shot.

Dallas, on the other hand, did not fan on the shot. Marchment set up Seguin, who beat Blackwood on a wrister from the right circle. And, of course, it was caused by a Colorado turnover. Now the series has been turned on its head.

Takeaways

The top six have been a mess this series. MacKinnon pouted for much of the overtime period, Makar hasn’t been himself, and we saw no sense of urgency tonight. None. You would think that with the return of Landeskog and the opportunity to take a 2-1 series lead on your home ice, there would be an incentive to play harder. Instead, we’re down 2-1, and if this team wants to win this series, we’re going to have to do it in Dallas.

Also, why did Jared Bednar take Nichushkin off the first power-play line? That’s a question for the head coach, but something needs to change quickly. The people are tired of losing to Dallas.

Next Game

Game 3 takes place Saturday at Ball Arena. Puck drop is at 7:30 local time.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...-lose-in-overtime-as-dallas-takes-series-lead

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Opinion: The Avalanche still control their fate but must make adjustments

Photo by Andy Cross/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images

What can Colorado do to stem the tide in game four?

The Colorado Avalanche suffered yet another overtime loss while also failing to maintain a third-period lead. Doing that twice in a row in the playoffs certainly is not ideal, but there's still hockey to be played. I'm gonna lay out a few things that I think the Avalanche can quickly change to find success in game four.

Ado’s DOs and DONTs after games 1-3.#GoAvsGo | @MileHighHockey | @MHH_LAB

DO:

Put more pucks on the net. Have a shoot first mentality.

Make smart decisions in transition.

Get 92-13-29-88-8 on the ice for PP1.

Focus on generating more net front chances.

DONT:…

— Adrian Hernandez (@AdoHernandez27) April 24, 2025​

You don't shoot...​

It's a tale as old as time, but this go around, the fans in the lower bowl shouting "SHOOT" might be on to something. Colorado led after one period in game three, but it wasn't exactly due to an onslaught of chances. Nichushkin's one goal and chance represent Colorado's best look in regulation, and that can't be the case.

Let's examine who has been successful in Colorado and why, and then apply that thinking to the entire group. Logan O'Connor and the 4th line have been performing well, and, of course, their matchups are a factor, but they've been effective against whoever Dallas has deployed. Why? They are playing clever, consistent, and hard-working hockey. LOC is the first to every puck or fights his way in on almost every exchange. Just look at his goal in game two, where the Avs chipped it into the slot twice and finished via a blind back-hand from Logan. Gritty or greasy, whatever you call it, that's what's working in this series—the top six need to buy into that.

I want to see a 'shoot first' mentality from the top six. I want one fewer pass, and I want net front chances and battles. Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar have to start using their speed to crash the net, not just drive and pull up so much. That second part applies primarily to MacKinnon. The cross-ice seam pass to wide-open back door play just isn't hitting the same. Time to adjust.

Logan O'Connor's BEAUTIFUL finish in tight gives Colorado the lead late in the 2nd period!#GoAvsGo | #StanleyCupPlayoffs pic.twitter.com/ClLXHdoh1j

— Hockey Daily 365 l NHL Highlights & News (@HockeyDaily365) April 22, 2025​

Put the power in power play.​

A lot has been said about Jared Bednar's choices with the lineup and PP unit, and I guess I'm going to add to that. I do not see why you would ever deploy a power play unit that doesn't combine #29 and #13 at all times. Beyond that, Drouin is seemingly slumping, and although Lehky got his in game one, he is still struggling to finish. I say throw Gabe back on the top PP1 to park in front and let #88 and #8 do the rest alongside MacK and Nuke. If you're skeptical of Necas, I wouldn't even be opposed to putting Devon Toews into PP1 and letting him quarterback instead of Cale. That would free Makar up and allow him to be honored in a different way.

Either way, you can't go 0-6 in a playoff game while having a man-advantage. Moreover, you can't have a four-minute advantage to end regulation and start overtime without cashing in. Although Lehky got close, the Avalanche didn't generate nearly enough opportunities within that situation, but that's my opinion.

After going 0-6 on the power play last night, Avalanche Coach, Jared Bednar, was asked if it’s time to go back to the drawing board: pic.twitter.com/vKh0bX9alh

— 92.5 FM - Denver's Altitude Sports Radio (@AltitudeSR) April 24, 2025​

Keep it classy, Colorado.​

The last thing I want to touch on is the penalties against. The Avalanche aren't doing a proficient job of keeping the refs out of games. Sure, you could argue about the legitimacy of a few calls in this series, but at the end of the day, it's best not to tempt fate. Play the right way and earn your chances. That will leave you with nothing to worry about and limit the refs' involvement.

Colorado needs to think smart in this series. When they have a lead, they need to capitalize on it and keep the pressure on. A one-goal lead isn’t safe, as has been made clear in games two and three. They are especially compromised when you end up handing them a man advantage—no more penalties.

It's in your hands​

The great news about these adjustments is that they are all things Colorado can control. Their fate still rests in their hands, but finding light at the end of the tunnel won't be achieved by standing pat and being complacent. This series will be won by the team that is most willing to earn their success, and the Avalanche can accept that truth and deploy a new mindset the rest of the way.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...-control-their-fate-but-must-make-adjustments

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

NHL 25: Stars push Avalanche toward brink of elimination with 2-1 win

Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

The Avalanche went 0/4 on the power play and registered just three shots on net combined on their first three opportunities with the man-advantage.

Brutal.

NHL 25 has predicted that the Dallas Stars will defeat the Colorado Avalanche 2-1 in Game 4 to take a commanding 3-1 series lead at Ball Arena.

Gabriel Landeskog scored the lone goal for the Avalanche, while Evgenii Dadonov and Tyler Seguin, who scored the game-winner, found the net for Dallas.

The simulation played out in a very similar fashion to Game 3, albeit Colorado had more shots on net.

Mackenzie Blackwood was once again fantastic but it was all for naught as the offense fell asleep for a third straight game. He stopped 21 of 23 shots and Jake Oettinger stopped 26 of 27 for the winning club.

And yes the power play was also atrocious. The Avalanche went 0/4 and the Stars, well, they scored one out of their two opportunities, but it was that single goal that made a difference.

The key takeaway from this game has been a real-life issue throughout the season: turnovers. The Avalanche turned over the puck constantly and created opportunities for the opposing team.

First Period

However, Colorado took advantage of a Dallas turnover in the first period to score their only goal of the game. It happened when Seguin carried the puck into the Colorado zone and attempted to pass the puck to Cody Ceci behind the net. Unfortunately for Dallas, Ceci completely missed the pass and it ended up being a bank pass to the wrong team. Marty Nečas scooped up the puck and found Landeskog down the middle of the ice, and the captain scored on the breakaway. That all unfolded just five minutes and 25 seconds into the game.

And that was it for the offense. Colorado had the lead for just over three minutes until Dadonov scored as he snapped a shot while getting taken down to the ice from behind by Devon Toews. Despite that, the puck managed to sneak under Blackwood’s armpit and into the net.

Just like Game 3, Dallas gave Colorado so many opportunities to get the lead back. The Avs went on their first power play Oskar Bäck with just over eight minutes left in the period when he cross-checked Toews in the back and shoved him down to the ice. Did the Avs do anything about it? Nope. In fact, they didn’t even register a shot on goal. MacKinnon and Makar combined for three turnovers during the two-minute display.

Colorado went on the power play again when Matt Duchene elbowed Jack Drury and sent him crashing into the boards. This time, they managed to get one shot on net when Landeskog ripped a slapper from the left circle, but Oettinger gloved it.

Second Period

The second period started with a penalty when Roope Hintz sent MacKinnon down off the faceoff. Same old story. Two shots registered on the power play and no goals.

5:41 into the period, the Stars got their first chance on the man advantage when Joel Kiviranta slashed Mikael Granlund on the hands while attempting to get at a loose puck.

The Stars took a 2-1 lead when Colorado’s best friend, Mason Marchment fed Seguin in the slot and he snapped a wrister to beat Blackwood top shelf. And that was it for scoring. The game effectively ended in the second period.

Colorado entered the third period with a 19-14 advantage in shots on goal.

Third Period

Hintz was straight up robbed by Blackwood early in the third when he had possession of the puck in the slot and, with his back turned, whipped around a wrist shot, but Blackwood came up with a diving blocker save. Unfortunately, he went unrewarded for his heroism.

The Avalanche went on the power play with 15:13 left on the board when Marchment elbowed Josh Manson in the back of the head and dropped him to the ice. Wow, that sounds oddly realistic. And the Avs not converting? Well, yeah, that, too.

Kiviranta gave Dallas a chance to earn an insurance marker when he was penalized for holding Ilya Lyubushkin. But the team stepped up and killed the infraction. Well, it was mostly Blackwood, but we were being a little politically correct. Blackwood came up with the blocker save on a shot from Mikko Rantanen from the left circle, a glove save on Wyatt Johnston, and stoned Hintz off a backhand shot in front of the net.

Colorado pulled Blackwood with just under a minute to go, but the Avalanche spent most of their time chasing the puck instead of being in possession. Thankfully, Dallas missed several shots so there was no empty-net goal, but it was yet another close, bitter loss for the Avalanche.

Takeaways

Let’s keep it short. If this happens, this series is all but over.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...nche-toward-brink-of-elimination-with-2-1-win

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Friday Feels: Powerplay Woes

Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

Colorado has to convert on the powerplay to regain the lead over Dallas

Well, this series sure hasn’t gone quite as I expected. If you listen to the MHH Lab podcast, you know the Jason Robertson injury shifted my prediction to a 5 game Avs victory lap over the depleted Stars. My logic was simple: without Robertson, the Stars forward depth advantage was no longer as big and their defense without Miro Heiskanen wasn’t good enough to slow down Colorado’s big guns.

What I failed to factor in was that the Avs big guns might just not come out firing. It’s been perplexing to watch Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar miss passes, whiff one timers, and turn pucks over with the regularity they have through three games. The powerplay specifically has been absolutely terrible, not only going 0 for 6 in game three but also looking lethargic and disconnected even on their successful opportunities in the first two contests.

After going 0-6 on the power play last night, Avalanche Coach, Jared Bednar, was asked if it’s time to go back to the drawing board: pic.twitter.com/vKh0bX9alh

— 92.5 FM - Denver's Altitude Sports Radio (@AltitudeSR) April 24, 2025​

The rest of my logic has proven right, I think - Dallas actually only has one bottom six goal (two if you ignore who Dadonov was skating with when he scored) and their defense hasn’t been able to control possession. They’ve led for literally 62 seconds, and the underlying metrics show Colorado controlling the play for the vast majority of all three games.

But that doesn’t matter if you can’t score, and you can’t score if you aren’t creating dangerous opportunities for yourself. The metrics do look pretty good for possession, but Dallas is outchancing Colorado through three games 95-86 fueled by 44-33 lead in high danger chances. They’re losing that battle despite playing generally pretty well because when they’ve struggled for stretches (3rd period of Game 2, 1st Period of Game 3 most notably), they’ve been absolutely terrible at chance generation not just mediocre or even bad.

There is reason for optimism in these stats, though — 33 high danger chances through three games is exactly in line with Colorado’s season rate of 11.34/60, and in the regular season they scored on 20% of those chances. So far in the playoffs, they’ve converted 2% of their high danger chances. TWO PERCENT! That’s unreasonably inefficient and over the course of an 82 game season would absolutely normalize to closer to their 20% rate.

The trouble is, there isn’t a whole regular season left for this statistical anomaly to correct itself. They have 4 games left at maximum, and they can’t just count on a statistical rebound to get their offense going - they need to find a way to generate more chances immediately to keep this series alive.

In my opinion, that means simplifying the offense to put more shots on net and generate rebound chances, which may not be the pretty high danger chances you picture from highlight reel goals and saves but are just as dangerous on the stat sheet and more likely to work in a tight checking playoff battle. With Gabriel Landeskog back in the lineup and looking like nearly his old board battlin’ self, Artturi Lehkonen digging out pucks at his normal high level, Charlie Coyle using his big body effectively, and Dallas giving big minutes to Cody Ceci, Liam Bichsel and Alex Petrovic, the whole top 9 should be able to win in the dump and chase game if they’re willing to commit to it.

The powerplay should try it too, frankly, as Dallas has totally shut down the Avs blue line drop pass on zone entries. They’ve been letting MacKinnon slip into the zone but then circling behind him to cut off the drop pass and get clears, and it doesn’t seem like Colorado has adjusted to that at all. 0-6 on the powerplay in Game 3, including four minutes bridging the end of regulation and start of overtime, says it’s time to make a serious change to that unit’s strategy.

Ultimately though, there’s no amount of strategy that can overcome the lackluster play of Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar. That duo absolutely has to find their A game (or even B, tbh) in Game 4 or the Avs will be going back to Dallas on the brink of elimination.

FRIDAY FEELS

I’ve said all I want to say about the actual games, because outside of the OT finish I’ve been feeling nothing but joy since the start of Game 3. This was such a beautiful moment:

Landeskog with a WWE style entrance.

— Evan Rawal (@evanrawal.bsky.social) 2025-04-24T01:16:15.631Z

And this really cracked me up. I love the Rantanen quip but even more it’s just great to see Gabe joking around with the refs because you rarely get to see these players as people in a workplace - that was so the same conversation you could have around the watercooler with someone who was out for a couple months on sabbatical or something. Love it.

“Welcome back, big fella.”

Gabe Landeskog was mic’d up for his NHL return on Wednesday, and everyone was greeting the Avs’ captain pic.twitter.com/dkDDH52WGP

— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) April 25, 2025​

It feels like the Avs have to win this series and go on a deep run because they spent a lot of future assets on this playoff roster, but even if they don’t I think I could be happy with the season just because I got to see Gabe play again. For everything he’s done off the ice to get back here, Landy is a real life hero.

Now we just need him to be a hero on it again, too.

PREDICTIONS

I said on the pod Val would score a powerplay goal in Game 3 or 4, so he better get one next game since this baby was 4 on 4:

VALERI NICHUSHKIN WITH A BEAUTY OF A GOAL! Avalanche strike first in Game 3! #GoAvsGo | #StanleyCupPlayoffs

— Hockey Daily 365 - NHL Highlights & News (@hockeydaily365.bsky.social) 2025-04-24T02:12:25.005Z

My 5 game series win prediction is shot, and with Heiskanen likely back I feel this thing actually going the full 7 now. Here’s how I think the week plays out:

Saturday Game 4: 5-3 W
Landy and Nuke both score on the powerplay, Cale racks up 3 assists

Monday Game 5: 2-0 W
MacKinnon scores the only real goal. The empty netter comes from the fourth line.

Thursday Game 6: 4-3 OTL
The powerplay sputters again. Jamie Benn and Mikko Rantanen each put up 2 points.

Game seven will be Saturday so I’ll give a more detailed prediction next week. Or maybe the powerplay doesn’t sputter in Game 6 and I’ll be talking about Round 2 against the Jets!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025/4/25/24416757/friday-feels-powerplay-woes

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Game 4 Preview: Avalanche look for offense against Stars in Denver

Photo by Dustin Bradford/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Pressure mounts as the Avs aim to tie the series 2-2 as they head back to Dallas

Despite the improbable three-year return of Gabriel Landeskog to Ball Arena ice for Game 3 on Wednesday, the roars from the crowd and the chants of “Landy, Landy” were not enough for the Avs to set forth their best effort on the ice. A sloppy game that saw the Avalanche struggle to generate sustained offense, complete simple passes, and overwhelm a confident Dallas Stars team in enemy territory, who skated away with a 2-1 Overtime victory off the stick of Tyler Seguin, and a 2-1 series lead to boot.

Coming into Game 4, the Avs’ backs are against the wall, and they know it in the locker room. They stare down the barrel of a 3-1 series deficit if they can’t change their fortunes offensively, and it starts with the top players. To win the game and ultimately the series, you need your best players to be your best players, and there are a lot of guys who know they need to flip a switch.

Colorado Avalanche

The mission for tonight's Avs is straightforward: get the offense in a groove. In games 2 and 3, the Avs struggled mightily to generate sustained offensive pressure, which in turn led to a lack of dangerous scoring chances. A lot of this is on the Avs' top players, as none of them have performed as needed for the Avs to achieve success.

Nathan MacKinnon has another gear to find, Valeri Nichushkin needs to build off of a strong Game 3 performance following a horrid Game 2, and you need some contributions from the likes of Jonathan Drouin, Artturi Lehkonen, Martin Necas, and Brock Nelson. On top of the forwards, Cale Makar has yet to make a positive impact on this series from the backend, and his struggles on the offensive end have been the catalyst. He was supposed to be a major X-factor in this series without Miro Heiskanen to match him on the other side, but it has been Thomas Harley who has filled the shoes of Heiskanen and delivered in this series in a way Cale has not. The Avs need Makar to turn it around.

While the lineup will remain the same for the Avalanche tonight, there will be some shuffling to the line combinations. Firstly, after a strong return to action for the captain, Gabriel Landeskog will see a promotion to the second line tonight, skating alongside Nelson and Nichushkin. Landeskog was not afraid to be physical at all in his long-awaited return, leading the Avs in hits (6), and while his timing was off with the puck, he was involved in the play each time he was out there. Jonathan Drouin gets the demotion to the third line, alongside Charlie Coyle and Joel Kiviranta.

Mackenzie Blackwood will start for the Avs. He has the highest goals saved above expected (GSAx) amongst goaltenders thus far in the postseason, and gave the Avs every opportunity to remain in games 2 and 3. At the same time, the skaters struggled to beat Oettinger on the other side. Despite strong numbers of a 2.07 goals against average and a .923 save percentage through his first three career NHL playoff games, those are going to be difficult numbers to maintain against a strong Stars group, so the Avs skaters need to help him with some offense before the Stars get going themselves.

Playoff goalie rankings https://t.co/RtBkDPbkvW pic.twitter.com/OBqKCmEvx4

— MoneyPuck.com (@MoneyPuckdotcom) April 24, 2025​

Projected Lineup:

Artturi Lehkonen (62) — Nathan MacKinnon (29) — Martin Necas (88)

Gabriel Landeskog (92) — Brock Nelson (11) — Valeri Nichushkin (13)

Jonathan Drouin (27) — Charlie Coyle (10) — Joel Kiviranta (94)

Parker Kelly (17) — Jack Drury (18) — Logan O’Connor (25)

Devon Toews (7) — Cale Makar (8)

Ryan Lindgren (55) — Josh Manson (42)

Samuel Girard (49) — Sam Malinski (70)

Mackenzie Blackwood (39)

Scott Wedgewood (41)

Dallas Stars

Dallas has held the lead for only 62 seconds in this entire series, but the Stars found themselves on the right side of both Overtime results, and have erased the negative feelings of losing Game 1 on home ice. While they hold the lead in the series, there are areas in their game where they can improve.

The offense has been hard to come by for Dallas in this series thus far, having scored only seven goals compared to the Avs' nine. Much like the Avs, they’ve been awaiting the arrival of their all-Finnish top line to the scoresheet in this series, as Mikael Granlund, Roope Hintz, and Mikko Rantanen have not yet registered a goal at even strength. They’ve had minor contributions, with Hintz and Granlund having a power-play point each, and Rantanen making a great play to set up Tyler Seguin’s Game 3 overtime winner, but that line finding a gear is the last thing the Avs need as they look to get their top six going as well.

Defenseman Miro Heiskanen will not make his return to the lineup in Game 4, per Stars Head Coach Pete DeBoer. Their lineup will remain the same, as it has been all series. Jake Oettinger will again register the start in goal, who has been stellar since Game 1.

Pete DeBoer said Heiskanen is still out tonight.

— Meghan Angley (@megangley) April 26, 2025​

Projected Lineup

Mikael Granlund (64) — Roope Hintz (24) — Mikko Rantanen (96)

Mason Marchment (27) — Matt Duchene (95) — Tyler Seguin (91)

Jamie Benn (14) — Wyatt Johnston (53) — Evgenii Dadonov (63)

Oskar Back (10) — Sam Steel (18) — Colin Blackwell (15)

Esa Lindell (23) — Cody Ceci (44)

Thomas Harley (55) — Ilya Lyubushkin (46)

Lian Bichsel (6) — Alex Petrovic (28)

Jake Oettinger (29)

Casey DeSmith (1)

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...k-for-offense-against-stars-in-pivotal-game-4

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Landeskog scores & Avalanche pulverize the Stars to even the series

Photo by Andy Cross/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images

The boys needed to fight and scrap, and they did that and then some. Win 4-0 and tie the series at 2-2.

DENVER — The Colorado Avalanche were the aggressive, hard-nosed team they needed to be Saturday night at Ball Arena

The Avs evened up the best-of-seven series against the Dallas Stars at two games apiece with a 4-0 shutout victory.

Gabriel Landeskog scored for the first time since Game Six of the Stanley Cup Finals in a moment that was soon trending worldwide. Nathan MacKinnon, Samuel Girard, and Logan O’Connor also scored for the Avalanche.

Tonight's first star ️#GoAvsGo | #BuiltDifferent pic.twitter.com/wn57NjQxex

— x - Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) April 27, 2025​

Mackenzie Blackwood, who scored his first career playoff shutout, saved all 23 shots.

Jake Oettinger started the game for the Stars, but was yanked after two periods for Casey DeSmith. Oettinger finished with three goals allowed, while DeSmith was responsible for the fourth.

The three stars of the game were O’Connor, Blackwood, and Landeskog.

First Period

The game was tense from the get-go as Landeskog had the puck poke-checked away from him by Mikko Rantanen and was subsequently checked into the boards by Lindell.

Colorado needed to be aggressive, and they were in the first period, pouring the pressure on Dallas. Lehkonen had a breakaway opportunity but was turned away by Oettinger. Cale Makar also had a beautiful chance when he split two defenders, only to miss the net.

Dallas went on the power play after Logan O’Connor was whistled for high-sticking. But on the very next play, Hintz was penalized for slashing Makar after the whistle, and Drury was also boxed for roughing.

As we indicated earlier on Saturday, Colorado needed to get more aggressive in this game, regardless of how the officials felt about it.

With 10:40 remaining, the Stars had seven shots on goal to the Avs’ 6. There was no doubt that Colorado came to fight.

Toews was penalized with just over eight minutes to go when he Tiger Woods’d a puck into the crowd. As a result, a delay of the game was called.

However, Logan O’Connor made up for it when he forced a turnover and went on a breakaway to beat Oettinger via the wrister on a shorthanded goal. And just like that, Colorado had a 1-0 lead.

SHEEEEEEEESSH ‍ #GoAvsGo | #BuiltDifferent pic.twitter.com/Odli9PMcmP

— x - Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) April 27, 2025​

Mason Marchment continued to be himself with 2:19 to go when he was penalized for elbowing Makar while he was down. This gave the Avalanche a prime opportunity to capitalize on the power play. Unlike Game 3, the Avalanche scored when Toews fed MacKinnon a beautiful one-timer from the left circle.

At the end of the first, the Avalanche held a 2-0 lead, and shots were even at 11 apiece.

Second Period

The Avalanche continued to set a blistering pace to begin the second period of play, but Oettinger continued to make scintillating saves from nearly every angle.

But with just under seven minutes left, “The Captain” made his grand return, taking a feed from Brock Nelson and ripping a howitzer top shelf to give the Avalanche a commanding 3-0 lead. The crowd chanted, “LANDY!” LANDY!” LANDY!” for just over a minute following the score.

“LANDY, LANDY, LANDY”

A MOVIE. #GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/YrsfTUhm71

— Adrian Hernandez (@AdoHernandez27) April 27, 2025​

At the end of two, the Avalanche were an entirely different team. They led the game 3-0 and dominated puck possession. Shots on goal were in favor of the Avalanche 34-16.

Third Period

The final frame kicked off with a stunning development when Oettinger was yanked for Casey DeSmith. Colorado was subsequently Ryan Lindgren was questionably penalized for holding Matt Duchene.

After killing off the penalty, Colorado continued to pour it on. And with 9:14 remaining, Girard scored with a blast from the point to make it a 4-0 game.

To further illustrate the one-sided nature of the action, with just under eight minutes left in regulation, the Avalanche held a 46-18 advantage in shots. And about a minute later, Drury had a juicy chance to make it a 5-1 lead, but his shot missed wide.

Marchment got a taste of his own medicine when he tried to check Necas into the boards, but when the latter turned his body, Marchment ended up wrecking himself and took some time to get to the bench.

After some late roughhousing, Colorado came away with the victory.

Boom #GoAvsGo | #BuiltDifferent pic.twitter.com/tOrRQeQfyd

— x - Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) April 27, 2025​

Takeaways

Our analytical piece, released earlier today, may have come across as negative. Still, in reality, we wanted to see this team fight for every inch and showcase their full potential. They did just that, and instead of being on the brink of elimination, the Colorado Avalanche are in a prime position to take this series over.

Way to go, boys. On to Game 5.

You are gonna tell me you don’t love this team? You don’t love this captain?#GoAvsGo

pic.twitter.com/C0gEHesIQb

— Adrian Hernandez (@AdoHernandez27) April 27, 2025​

Next Game

The Avalanche head back to American Airlines Center to square off against the Dallas Stars in enemy territory on Monday. Puck drop is at 7:30 p.m. local time.

Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...lanche-pulverize-the-stars-to-even-the-series

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Gabriel Landeskog joins Mario Lemieux and others among the greatest comebacks in sports

Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

And we were there to witness it all.

DENVER — Gabriel Landeskog is now forever etched in sports history.

In just his second professional game in 1,041 days, "The Captain" found the back of the net. With 6:50 remaining in the second period, Brock Nelson found Landeskog all alone in the slot and whisked him a pass. Landy subsequently unloaded a scorching slapshot past Dallas goaltender Jake Oettinger to give the Colorado Avalanche a 3-0 lead, sending Ball Arena into absolute delirium. It was Landeskog's first goal since Game Six of the 2022 Stanley Cup Final, which ended with the Avs hoisting the immortalized trophy for the third time in franchise history.

Gabe Landeskog via @NHL_On_TNT on who inspired him:

“There’s inspiration all over the place.. Andy Murray was one of em.. I kept reminding myself I’m not the only one who’s gone through something.”#GoAvsGo | @MileHighHockey

— Adrian Hernandez (@AdoHernandez27) April 27, 2025​

It was the punctuation mark to a comeback that many saw as unobtainable, including some Colorado fans. Of course, also present was your fair share of X (Twitter) flibbertigibbets, who insinuated or flat-out accused Landeskog of feigning injury to allow the Avalanche to circumvent the salary cap. Why yes, Twitter graduate, Landeskog purposefully sat on his tochus for more than 1,000 days in this elaborate scheme that only the FBI could unravel. What!?

I hate the Avs constantly using the LTIR loophole, but watching Gabe Landeskog take the ice after almost three years is incredible

— Erik (@erikbond) April 24, 2025​

Stupidity aside, this journey is one of the most incredible comebacks in modern sports history. From a hockey perspective, the first player that comes to mind is Mario Lemieux, who initially retired in 1997 due to his battle with Hodgkin's lymphoma and persistent back pain. But after his son, Austin, urged his father to play again, he embarked on a return for the ages.

After 44 months on the shelf, during which he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame and became owner of the Pittsburgh Penguins, Lemieux scored a point just 33 seconds into his return when he assisted on a goal scored by Jaromir Jagr. And in the second period, Jagr returned the favor, finding Lemieux all alone by the left circle to beat Toronto's Curtis Joseph to send a packed Mellon Arena into elation. Then, ESPN broadcasters Gary Thorne and Bill Clement were on the call that evening.

It's Flash-COMEBACK Friday today! 19 years ago Mario Lemieux returned to the ice after 44 months of retirement. Did you watch his comeback game? pic.twitter.com/KhAifBlJyP

— Mario Lemieux (@MarioLemieuxFdn) December 27, 2019​

While Landeskog didn't score a point in his first game back in Game 3, aside from Valeri Nichushkin, he had the most significant impact on the ice. Yes, the guy who hadn't skated in a professional game in over three years was arguably the best player on the ice for Colorado that night.

It's also essential to include a few additional details. First and foremost, this is the playoffs. Not to diminish Lemieux's accomplishment, but the stakes couldn't be higher. The Avalanche are facing one of their most hated rivals, the Dallas Stars, in the opening round of the postseason. Additionally, the game has undergone significant changes. The players today are faster, stronger, and have access to better equipment as well as enhanced strength & conditioning programs. The fact that Landeskog was able to have such a significant impact right from the start is a testament to his will, strength, and undeniable skill.

There have been other Landy-esque comebacks in other sports as well. In 2004, then-heavyweight boxing champion Vitali Klitschko, currently the Mayor of Kyiv, Ukraine, snapped his ACL nine days before he was set to face Hasim Rahman. He announced his retirement and underwent surgery to repair a knee injury. It kept him out of the ring for nearly four years. But on October 11, 2008, at the age of 37, Klitschko was rewarded with an opportunity to fight Samuel Peter for the same WBC belt that he vacated all those years before. He dominated their scheduled 12-round bout and knocked out Peter in eight one-sided rounds. Klitschko went on to fight nine more times, winning every single fight, and retired at the top of the sport, while his younger brother, Wladimir, also became a champion in the same weight class.

Sugar Ray Leonard was one of the greatest fighters of his generation. But in 1982, he announced his retirement due to an eye injury, a detached retina, and a lack of desire to continue fighting. But three years later, Leonard found the urge to fight again and immediately challenged the man considered to be the best and most feared fighter at the time, perennial middleweight world champion Marvelous Marvin Hagler. Although the result was deemed controversial and is still heavily debated by sports pundits today, Leonard won the fight, and Hagler retired from the sport, vowing never to fight again.

Sugar Ray Leonard thrilling comeback pic.twitter.com/dUIjIBDap8

— IBleedBoxing (@ibleedboxing) November 1, 2024​

The late George Foreman, who passed away last month at the age of 76, was another famous case. Following a born-again experience, Foreman retired from boxing in 1977 to become an ordained Christian minister. Ten years later, he announced his return to the sport, and like Landeskog, very few gave him a chance that he'd ever return to the top. It took an additional eight years, but Foreman, at the age of 45, knocked out then-titleholder Michael Moorer, who was 19 years his junior, in the 10th round to become a two-time heavyweight champion.

However, the world has undergone significant changes since the 1970s. The past decade and a half has also seen some portentous changes. Heck, robots are taking over the world. But what Landeskog has been through is of larger significance in today's landscape. Again, we're not diminishing anyone else. We're simply speaking the facts.

The proliferation of technology and the internet is considered one of the greatest inventions in history, yet simultaneously one of the most problematic. Social media is an excellent source of information and disinformation, but it has also been weaponized by specific individuals to attack others they would otherwise not confront in person.

"Landeskog [is] ****** irrelevant out there shoulda stayed on [injured reserve]," said one X user. They ended up deleting their tweet for the record, as many have once been forced to face the music.

This journey has pushed Landeskog over the edge at points. His documentary, titled "A Clean Sheet," available on MAX, provides an in-depth examination of what the 2011 2nd overall pick has absorbed since the operation on his knee. "I'm tired of wearing a suit on game days," Landeskog tearfully said as he had to take a moment to gather himself. That's a few seconds. The excruciating pain and suffering started in 2020 and culminated with cartilage transplant surgery in 2023. Then, you add in another two years. A few seconds doesn't even nip the surface. Try 94.6 million seconds. That's three years' worth. The internal battle is the pain, the loss of time, and the emptiness that comes with being unable to live life the way you want. Not being able to show your beautiful children what you're truly capable of. The external battle refers to outside forces, i.e., cowards, the opprobrium of the populace who have nothing to do in life but act like complete dullards on the internet.

"Retire."

"You're washed up."

"You're a waste of a roster spot."

#GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/GL1VMeXXKN

— Adrian Hernandez (@AdoHernandez27) March 7, 2025​

In the meantime, Landeskog maintained his incredible resoluteness. He continued to practice and hone his craft. You knew this was coming if you witnessed his practices with the Avalanche and his two-game stint with the Eagles leading up to Saturday's historic moment. It honestly looked as if he hadn't lost a step.

That's Gabriel Landeskog for you, folks, a true once-in-a-generation warrior. Treasure this man as he continues to play this game that we are so blessed to be a part of. And yes, the battle is far from over. We still have a Stanley Cup to win, and Landeskog is leading us back into the fight.

Find a way.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...others-among-the-greatest-comebacks-in-sports

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Game 5 Preview: Avs look to take back the series lead in Dallas

Photo by Dustin Bradford/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Colorado heads back to Dallas for game 5 in a tied series.

After tying this first-round series up at 2-2 after a dominant 4-0 win over the Dallas Stars, the Colorado Avalanche look to take the lead here tonight in game five.

Game Five.#GoAvsGo | #BuiltDifferent pic.twitter.com/DnmvhRz0oT

— x - Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) April 28, 2025​

Colorado Avalanche​

Colorado comes into this very important game five off of a couple of very eventful games three and four, which saw their captain make his long-awaited return to the lineup. Not only did Gabe Landeskog play his first games in nearly three years, but he also contributed on the score sheet on Saturday.

OUR CAPTAIN IS BUILT DIFFERENT#GoAvsGo | #BuiltDifferent pic.twitter.com/q7S97ApUKR

— x - Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) April 27, 2025​

Landeskog has had an immediate impact in his return, and this Avs team was really firing on all cylinders in game four. They’ll need to replicate that performance here tonight if they want to put the Stars on the brink of elimination, which is far easier said than done.

Projected Lineup​

Artturi Lehkonen - Nathan MacKinnon - Martin Necas
Gabriel Landeskog - Brock Nelson - Valeri Nichushkin
Jonathan Drouin - Charlie Coyle - Joel Kiviranta
Parker Kelly - Jack Drury - Logan O’Connor

Devon Toews - Cale Makar
Samuel Girard - Josh Manson
Ryan Lindgren - Sam Malinski

Dallas Stars​

Despite this Dallas team missing two of their top players, they’ve still managed to stay in this series, which is a testament to how opportunistic and deep they are as a team. This was never going to be an easy series, and Dallas has not made this series easy for Colorado.

Despite their missing players and whatnot, they’re still nothing to scoff at. And as I previously wrote, putting them on the brink of elimination tonight will be far easier said than done, because they have the opportunity to do the exact same. Neither team is going to be desperate here tonight, but the opportunity to make the other desperate and put them on the brink of elimination will most likely be more than enough for both of these teams to get up for this game.

Projected Lineup​

Mikael Granlund - Roope Hintz - Mikko Rantanen
Mason Marchment - Matt Duchene - Tyler Seguin
Jamie Benn - Wyatt Johnston - Evgenii Dadonov
Oskar Back - Sam Steel - Colin Blackwell

Esa Lindell - Cody Ceci
Thomas Harley - Ilya Lyubushkin
Lian Bichsel - Alex Petrovic

Goaltenders​

Once again, it’ll likely be Mackenzie Blackwood going against Jake Oettinger in the net. Blackwood is coming off his first career playoff shutout, which he earned in Game 4, and Oettinger is coming off a game where he was pulled in the third period in favor of Casey DeSmith. Oettinger was incredibly far down on the list of things that went wrong for Dallas in game four, and Pete Deboer did say that he was given the hook to get some rest before game five, so he should be just fine for tonight.

Deboer says Oettinger came out to rest him.

— Evan Rawal (@evanrawal) April 27, 2025​

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...-to-take-a-series-lead-back-against-the-stars

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Stars push Avalanche to brink of elimination with 6-2 smacking

Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Dallas led just nine seconds in, and the Avalanche stand to get eliminated if they don’t push forward.

This was a big night for the Colorado Avalanche and Dallas Stars, as just about 76% of teams that win game five go on to win a playoff series in the NHL. With that said, it was the biggest game of the year, and Colorado didn’t rise to the occasion, losing 6-2 in a frustrating night.

Artturi Lehkonen and Nathan MacKinnon each scored for the Avalanche, while Marty Nečas collected two assists.

Mackenzie Blackwood has statistically been the best goaltender this postseason, but tonight was just not his night. He stopped just 13 of 18 shots before being pulled to begin the third period for backup Scott Wedgewood, who stopped all eight shots he faced.

Mikko Rantanen had a goal and two assists, and Roope Hintz had a goal and an assist for Dallas, which took a 3-2 series lead in the Western Conference First Round best-of-seven series.

Jake Oettinger stopped 26 of 28 shots.

First Period

Dallas scored nine seconds into the game when the Stars dumped it, and Wyatt Johnston was able to skate in as MacKinnon lost track of the puck and fired a quick wrister that snuck by Blackwood on the right side of the net.

With 10:37 left in the frame, Dallas went on the power play after Parker Kelly was called for hooking. However, shortly thereafter, Roope Hintz was whistled for interference after he cross-checked Sam Malinski in the back in front of the net.

With less than a minute to go in the first, Harley made it 2-0 when his shot deflected off Blackwood’s blocker and into the air, and proceeded to bounce off Blackwood’s back and into the net to make it 2-0. Call it a fluke goal, but Dallas put themselves in a position to make that play.

“It sucks when there is 2 in the first period, it’s unfortunate but not much you can do about it now, just try and reset” - Blackwood#GoAvsGo | #BuiltDifferent pic.twitter.com/OjIwqHhOtH

— AltitudeTV (@AltitudeTV) April 29, 2025​

Second Period

Rantanen buried one to start the second frame when Hintz fed him by the backdoor for a beautiful goal and a 3-0 Dallas lead.

Colorado went on their second power play of the game when Evgenii Dadonov tripped Josh Manson. And once again, the Avalanche failed to convert.

With 11:15 remaining, Charlie Coyle was penalized for slashing Tyler Seguin. Colorado killed the penalty, and with 7:49 to go, Nečas one-timed a shot, and Lehkonen was there and deflected the shot into the net to make it a 3-1 game.

The Avalanche made it a one-goal game with 5:22 remaining when MacKinnon received the puck at the point and overpowered Matt Duchene, drove the puck to the net, and zipped a wrister by Oettinger. And just like that, it was a 3-2 score.

Dallas went on the power play almost immediately after when Sam Malinski wiped out Sam Steel with an elbow. The Stars got one back when Duchene fed Johnston a one-touch pass to the left circle and Johnston snapped one underneath the bar to make it 4-2.

The Stars took a 5-2 lead when Mason Marchment tipped in a shot from Alex Petrovic from the point.

Avs fight back with 2 goals, but still trail 5-2 after the second.

Check out your second period recap#GoAvsGo | #BuiltDifferent pic.twitter.com/5etO4sDM4E

— AltitudeTV (@AltitudeTV) April 29, 2025​

Third Period

At the beginning of the final period, Jared Bednar, like Pete DeBoer in Game 4, replaced his starting goaltender, and in came Scott Wedgewood.

The Stars added an empty-net tally to make it a 6-2 game when Hintz punched one in with 2:05 left in the game.

Takeaways

Instead of going home with a chance of closing out the series, the Avalanche head back to Ball Arena for Game 6 in an attempt at survival. And for the second straight season, Colorado could be eliminated once again by this Dallas Stars squad, even though they are missing two of their core players at the moment in Jason Robertson and Miro Heiskanen.

It has to be said, but is Cale Makar still with us? He’s been a ghost in this series. Charlie Coyle, Jonathan Drouin, and Brock Nelson have also yet to find the net. However, to his credit, Nelson has been a solid presence on the ice; he’s just yet to score, and goals are important to his team.

Colorado had more shots on net, but made critical mistakes from the start. The Avalanche lost track of the puck on the opening possession, and it led to a goal. They had multiple turnovers, took too many penalties, and reverted to playing the perimeter on the power play. Colorado played on the back foot, or in this case, the back skate if you want to put it that way. It just wasn’t a good night, folks.

“Throughout the game there were some plays that were uncharacteristic mistakes…we’re going to need to clean it up”

Landy shares his thoughts on the loss to Dallas #GoAvsGo | #BuiltDifferent pic.twitter.com/NHlAg0nG0M

— AltitudeTV (@AltitudeTV) April 29, 2025​

Let’s see if the Avalanche can regroup and force a Game 7. Losing two straight playoff series to the Stars is rough, but losing the deciding game two years in a row at home would be even more brutal. Heads up.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...che-to-brink-of-elimination-with-6-2-smacking

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Morning Flurries: The Avs must remain determined but can’t be stubborn

Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

It’s a complicated game but Colorado abandoned what’s worked for them in crucial game five.

This morning's coffee has a bitter taste, as the Dallas Stars led the Colorado Avalanche for 59:51 of the most critical game five of the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Did the Avalanche fall victim to some poor puck luck? Without a doubt. Did they still abandon what worked so well in game four? Most definitely.

Every Avs fan and media pundit showered the Avalanche with compliments following game four, and one of the major themes was how many shots they were able to put up. They put every possible look on the net, and wouldn't you know it, that approach opened Dallas up a bit and allowed the Avalanche to solve Oettinger. The Avs won and handedly in what was their best performance in a long time (including the regular season), and it was mainly in part to their willingness to put the puck in the hard areas.

️Mackenzie Blackwood

"I've had bad goals go in before but it sucks when there's two in the first period."

Powered By : #AccurateAmerica#GoAvsGo | @gs_off_ice pic.twitter.com/0aPxkyp8xR

— Guerilla Sports (@guerillasports_) April 29, 2025​

Fast forward just 48 hours, and the Avalanche reverted to peeling away from good looks and holding the puck while searching for the perfect passing play. It's downright unfathomable to me that this even has to be said, but Colorado MUST remember that peeling up instead of driving the net DOES NOT WORK and that it plays right into what Dallas is trying to do. Sure that might limit some chances to grade C or permiter chances but it's not the first chance that I think will go in, it's the second and third and if you can't get to the dangerous areas with the puck, you have to put the puck in said dangerous area and FIND IT!

️Gabe Landeskog

"I don't think we had the best execution to start the game, and even throughout the game. There were some plays that were almost uncharacteristic mistakes."

Powered By : #AccurateAmerica#GoAvsGo | @gs_off_ice pic.twitter.com/qho7QGCdhe

— Guerilla Sports (@guerillasports_) April 29, 2025​

I have some key culprits here, and I'll start with Devon Toews. Please start sending more Toewser lasers to the general facility of the net. Waiting for a cross-ice to you D partner is so predictable at this point that it's hurting Cale's ability to affect the game. Toews has to be viewed as a shooting threat, or else Dallas will continue to lean toward Makar's side and take away his vantage. As is, Dallas doesn't have to honor Toews as a scoring threat, and that's an issue.

Nathan MacKinnon has five goals in five playoff games and has been a great performer. All I'm about to say is that it could be even more dominant if he uses his speed to crash the net rather than collapsing the defense and looking for a drop pass; it would be most beneficial to his club's success. I understand that it's not as simple as it sounds, but it also is when you are as fast and elusive as MacKinnon. I don't even care if crashing the net doesn't lead to a MacKinnon goal. I repeat that this is about getting the puck into dangerous areas.

To keep trying the globetrotter approach is to be so stubborn that you are willing to drop a series rather than score the hard way. I put it plainly in my adjustments article: this series will go to the team that is most willing to earn its success.

Lastly, you can't play into the flop-fest that Dallas is imploring. Watching the Stars embellish any chance they get has frustrated me to the tune of trying to get a sleeping bag back into its pack, but the Avalanche can't follow my lead. Best to accept the fact that when Dallas starts to lose momentum, they are going to hit the deck any chance they get. The hockey gods will catch up with that, but Colorado will summon the lord of hockey faster if they stick to playing hockey the right way.

Crazy how Dallas plays so gritty but also flops around like little fishies.#GoAvsGo

— Adrian Hernandez (@AdoHernandez27) April 29, 2025​

The Avalanche must remain determined to play with integrity, even when Dallas doesn't. Don't be stubborn and keep hammering away at what doesn't work. If you do, you will have to make a Saturday tee-time just like me.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...s-must-remain-determined-but-cant-be-stubborn

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

NHL 25: Stars eliminate Avalanche for the second straight season in overtime heartbreak

Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

The Avalanche entered the third period leading 2-1 and ended it with a 4-4 tie.

The Dallas Stars will eliminate the Colorado Avalanche on Thursday night at Ball Arena. According to the NHL 25 simulation conducted Tuesday night which had Dallas winning 5-4 in overtime.

The Stars scored three goals in the third period to force overtime and it was enough to send them to the second round of the playoffs.

Sam Girard, Artturi Lehkonen, Joel Kiviranta, and Jack Drury scored for Colorado.

Mikko Rantanen had a goal and two assists for Dallas. Mikael Granlund had three assists, and the Stars also saw goals from Matt Duchene, Esa Lindell, Wyatt Johnston, and Mason Marchment, who scored the game-winner.

Mackenzie Blackwood stopped 29 of 34 shots and Jake Oettinger stopped 31 of 35 shots.

First Period

To start, 3:51 into the game, Girard accepted a cross-ice feed from Landeskog and he buried it to give Colorado a 1-0 lead with elimination on the back of everyone’s minds.

About four minutes later, the Avalanche went on the power play after Johnston cross-checked Charlie Coyle in the back near center ice.

The power play was stifled after several missed passes and turnovers. After failing to convert on the man-advantage, Brock Nelson was penalized for holding.

Once both teams returned to full strength, Colorado took a 2-0 lead when Drury beat Oettinger blocker side after Parker Kelly found him in the slot.

However, on the next play, Lehkonen was boxed for holding Cody Ceci against the boards, a play that had Jared Bednar holding his head in confusion. Dallas subsequently got one back when Johnston deflected a shot from Mikael Granlund that got by a sprawled out Blackwood to make it a one-goal deficit with just over three minutes to go in the period.

Colorado got another penalty when Jonathan Drouin was sent to the glass chamber for holding Esa Lindell. Another unfortunate infraction occurred after that when Marty Necas tripped up a guy while attempting to deke by him by the blue line. As a result, Dallas went on a 5-on-3 power play.

Second Period

Colorado managed to kill off the penalty and some of their depth players had juicy opportunities. Erik Johnson rang one off the post, and Drury just missed out on another goal as he was tangled in front of the net as a loose puck got away from Oettinger.

The Avalanche failed to convert on another power play and the second period ended with the boys holding a 2-1 lead.

Third Period

Lehkonen scored to make it a 3-1 game 26 seconds into the period when Necas fed him a perfect cross-crease pass for the tap-in. Unfortunately, Colorado found themselves down a man once again when Nathan MacKinnon slashed his good pal Rantanen. Dallas added another power play goal when Duchene knocked a rebound by Blackwood.

Kiviranta made it a 4-2 game when he beat Oettinger with a wrister blocker side with just over 13 minutes to go in the third.

Marchment and Rantanen teamed up for the same real-life sequence we saw in Game 5, where Marchment fed Rantanen in the slot to beat Blackwood’s blocker side. This made it a 4-3 game as they neared the conclusion.

Landeskog was called for holding Johnston with 12.9 seconds remaining in the game. The subsequent faceoff would take place in the Colorado defensive zone and Esa Lindell snapped a wrister by Blackwood off the faceoff to tie the game with 11 seconds remaining.

Overtime

With about nine minutes left in the first overtime frame, Drury was penalized for holding. And on the next play, Marchment scored to beat Blackwood and sent the Dallas Stars to the semifinals, and handed Colorado another bitter pill to swallow as they lost for the second consecutive year.

Takeaways

Blown third period leads? Sounds about right. But hey, the sim has been wrong three games in a row. Perhaps this means we will see a Game 7.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...he-for-the-second-straight-season-in-overtime

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Mile High Pollster: Avalanche fans carry too much baggage to hold hope

Photo by Michael Martin/NHLI via Getty Images

We’ve been down this road before, but can it end differently this time? Hard to feel that way.

It's time for another Mile High Hockey pollster with the Colorado Avalanche staring down the barrel of defeat and elimination in round one of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Colorado threw a dud in game four, but looks to bounce back and force a game seven. That's something they were unable to achieve just a season ago. Let's see how the fans feel about this round, which is soon coming to an end.

Cale is key​

The first poll I initiated was designed to gauge how Avalanche fans view a few key players heading into Game 6. Cale Makar has been quite, a little too quiet if you ask me, and I'd expect that to change hopefully sooner rather than later. It appears that most fans believe Colorado's success is most closely correlated with Cale's performance in game six. Mackenzie Blackwood is the goalie, so it makes sense that he garnered some of the votes as well.

Whose success is most important to Colorado’s success in game six?#GoAvsGo | @MileHighHockey | @MHH_LAB

— Adrian Hernandez (@AdoHernandez27) April 30, 2025​

Damaged goods​

Now, let's see how Avalanche fans feel heading into game six. The majority of fans voted in favor of the Avalanche forcing a game seven, but most of the comments we received spoke of being burned too many times in the past, not to expect the same this season. We get it, it's Dallas, and it's game six... again.

Avalanche fans are plenty familiar with suffering a heartbreaking defeat to Dallas in the playoffs, but it's still not something they are comfortable with. If you are going to criticize this era of the Avalanche, you can point to their lack of playoff success under both Pete DeBoer and the Stars. I get why fans aren't ready to love again.

Will the Avalanche force a game 7 with a win tomorrow?#GoAvsGo | @MileHighHockey | @MHH_LAB

— Adrian Hernandez (@AdoHernandez27) April 30, 2025​

Depends on which team shows up. Will it be Saturday Avs that can give the Stars a beat-down or will it be Monday's Avs that took a beating? Could go either way pic.twitter.com/VdCEykneJJ

— WanderingWomanInCO (@usertrc88) April 30, 2025​

What to do, what to do?​

I caught some flak for even asking this question right now, but let's be honest, in 48 hours, the Avalanche may have been eliminated twice in a row by Pete DeBoer's Dallas club, and this time without Miro Heiskanen or Jason Robertson. That will start the hypothetical sky fall, and these questions will get asked if that does become reality. So, what changes do you expect if Colorado can't advance? Avalanche fans say they want to see personnel changes if this series doesn't go as planned.

If the Avalanche are eliminated tomorrow, what sort of changes do you expect ahead of the 2025-26 season?#GoAvsGo | @MileHighHockey | @MHH_LAB

— Adrian Hernandez (@AdoHernandez27) April 30, 2025​

Bednar being fired would be absolutely ridiculous

— AO37 (@AO3740) April 30, 2025​

Game seven dragon​

Now, let's examine the optimistic side of these potential outcomes. Say the Avalanche come out and take care of business in game six, and we are destined for game seven in Dallas. How confident will you be that Nathan MacKinnon will win the first game seven of his career? Is this the year of slaying dragons? I sure hope so!

If the Avalanche force a game seven how confident are you that they will win and advance?#GoAvsGo | @MileHighHockey | @MHH_LAB

— Adrian Hernandez (@AdoHernandez27) April 30, 2025​

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...nche-fans-carry-too-much-baggage-to-hold-hope