The Colorado Avalanche continued their impressive run by defeating the Minnesota Wild, showcasing their depth and skill. Cale Makar and Brock Nelson each contributed a goal and two assists in the match, while Martin Necas also found the net. Valeri Nichushkin and Gabriel Landeskog provided crucial assists, helping the Avalanche improve their record to 26-2-7. This victory marks their fifth consecutive win and extends their point streak to eight games, with a record of 7-0-1 during this stretch. Goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood stood tall in net, making 28 saves to secure the win.
Following the game, Avalanche coach Jared Bednar emphasized the significance of the matchup. He described it as a crucial “measuring stick” game against teams they aim to surpass in the standings, particularly Minnesota and Dallas. Bednar praised his team’s performance, noting the heightened focus and competitive spirit that they brought to the game. “To a man tonight we did that,” he remarked, emphasizing the extra effort displayed by his players throughout the contest.
On the other side, Ryan Hartman scored for the Wild, who had their impressive home point streak snapped at 14 games, with a record of 12-0-2 during that span. Minnesota coach John Hynes lamented his team’s performance, echoing sentiments that they seemed a step behind against Colorado. “I just felt we were a step slow and a step off all night,” he commented, indicating a need for improved execution and speed.
Necas opened the scoring for Colorado late in the first period, delivering a powerful one-timer past goaltender Jesper Wallstedt from the right side. Although a potential second goal by Sam Malinski was disallowed after a successful offside challenge from Minnesota, Nathan MacKinnon capitalized on a power play to double the lead for the Avalanche in the second period. Makar then scored another power-play goal later in the period, increasing the advantage to 3-0.
With the Avalanche’s formidable showing and the dedication of the team, they are positioning themselves strongly for both the remainder of the regular season and the playoffs ahead. Their focus and teamwork will be critical as they face other competitive teams and seek to maintain this momentum.