Avalanche Rally Into Western Conference Final With Overtime
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DENVER — The Colorado Avalanche rallied from a 3-0 deficit to defeat the Minnesota Wild 4-3 in Game 5 of the Western Conference Second Round on Wednesday night, sending the contest to overtime after Nathan MacKinnon tied the game with 1:23 remaining and Brett Kulak scored at 3:52 of OT.
The victory eliminated the Wild and advanced Colorado to the Western Conference Final, where the Avalanche will face either the Vegas Golden Knights or the Anaheim Ducks; reports this week note the Avalanche completed their comeback after a midgame goalie change and that this was their first series-clinching home win since 2008.
More context
Timeline
- 1. Early first period: Marcus Johansson and Nick Foligno score to put Minnesota up 3-0.
- 2. Second period: Colorado responds offensively and changes goalies, replacing Mackenzie Blackwood with Scott Wedgewood.
- 3. Late third period: Jack Drury scores with 3:33 remaining, narrowing the deficit.
- 4. 1:23 left: Nathan MacKinnon ties the game with the net empty to force overtime.
- 5. 3:52 OT: Brett Kulak scores the overtime winner; Avalanche win 4-3 and advance.
Why it matters
This game is a testament to the Avalanche's resilience. If you're a fan, it's a thrilling victory. If you're a hockey player or coach, it's a lesson in never giving up, even when the odds are stacked against you.
Sources
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