The Colorado Avalanche are just one win away from punching their ticket to the Western Conference Final—and they're doing it in style.
After a tough Game 3 loss, the Avs came roaring back on Monday night, taking down the Minnesota Wild 5-2 in a dominant Game 4 performance at Grand Casino Arena. With the win, Colorado now holds a commanding 3-1 series lead as the action shifts back to Denver. It was exactly the kind of response champions are made of.
"For me, the biggest change from last game to this game is we were a more determined group," said head coach Jared Bednar. "To a man, just more determined and committed to playing the right way. I didn't hate our details last game but I thought that we got outcompeted in that game a little bit. Tonight we kind of swung it back in our favor and guys went to work. Relentless all over the rink — we just looked quicker."
The scoring came from all over the lineup. Nazem Kadri, Ross Colton, and Parker Kelly each lit the lamp for the Avs, while Nathan MacKinnon and Brock Nelson sealed the deal with empty-net goals. Martin Necas chipped in with two assists, showcasing the depth that makes this team so dangerous.
In net, Mackenzie Blackwood delivered a performance that had his coach beaming. After a quiet first half, Blackwood finished with 19 saves on 21 shots, helping Colorado outshoot Minnesota 34-21. "He was great. I think he went in the net and did exactly what I was hoping he would do," Bednar said.
The turning point came with the game tied 2-2 in the third period. The Avalanche's fourth line went to work in the offensive zone, cycling the puck with purpose. Jack Drury found Kelly above the circles, and Kelly ripped a one-timer over Wallstedt's shoulder for his first career playoff goal—a moment that sent a jolt through the arena.
"Doesn't come as a surprise to us within this locker room," said captain Gabe Landeskog. "We've seen it all season."
From the opening puck drop, the Avalanche looked like the hungrier team. They passed every eye test, flying around the rink with speed and purpose. It took more than a period and a half for the Wild to find their footing, and by then, Colorado had already taken control.
Now, with a 3-1 series lead and momentum on their side, the Avs are heading home with a chance to close it out. For fans, this is the kind of playoff hockey that makes every jersey, every hat, and every piece of gear feel like it's part of something special.