LAS VEGAS — Formula 1’s upcoming season will see the elimination of the Drag Reduction System, which previously allowed drivers to enhance their vehicles for overtaking at specific track locations. However, the Colorado Avalanche demonstrated their own brand of resilience and offensive power during Saturday night’s match against the Vegas Golden Knights, where they overcame three separate deficits to secure a victory in a shootout.
The Avalanche fell behind 2-0, then trailed 4-2 and 5-4, but rallied to clinch the win. A critical moment came in the third period when Nathan MacKinnon tallied three points, and a late 6-on-5 goal from Artturi Lehkonen sent the game into overtime. “We thought we were outplaying them,” MacKinnon said. “We just kept going and grinded that one out.”
This game marked a significant moment for the Avs, who have only faced a two-plus goal deficit five times this season, successfully overcoming such odds in three of those contests. Saturday’s win was their first of the season when trailing by two or more goals, bringing their record to 1-2-2 in such scenarios.
Across the NHL, the expectation is typically for a team to earn around 0.8 points per game after falling behind by two goals, but the Avalanche’s unique talents have made such situations infrequent. The team’s earlier comeback against New Jersey showcased their ability to erase deficits, and that tenacity was on full display once again in Vegas.
The game statistics reflect an impressive performance from the Avalanche in the brink of defeat. In the critical stages of the match, Colorado outperformed the Golden Knights with a staggering 45-9 edge in shot attempts during the third period and overtime. They also achieved a 17-3 advantage in shots on goal with an overall expected goals rate of 83.1%, including a perfect 100% in overtime.
Lehkonen’s equalizing goal with just 1:57 remaining in regulation set the stage for a dramatic finish. Following his goal, the Avalanche maintained consistent pressure, launching 14 shots in the ensuing overtime while Vegas managed none. Avalanche goalie Scott Wedgewood acknowledged the team’s ability to capitalize on their offensive strength against opposing teams that play conservatively with leads.
Key players, including MacKinnon, excelled under pressure, with the top line notably dominating the Golden Knights during critical moments. Defensemen Sam Malinski and Samuel Girard contributed significantly as well, showcasing a combined five points.
Head coach Jared Bednar highlighted the importance of contributions from the entire roster, emphasizing that players must find a rhythm to sustain their efforts. Colorado’s depth and ability to recover in high-pressure situations reflect a promising outlook for the season. As they look ahead, the Avalanche’s offensive firepower and defensive discipline suggest they are well-equipped to handle challenges on the ice, offering hope for their ultimate success in the NHL.