Avalanche Aim for Series Clinch Against Wild in Crucial Game 5 Showdown

Avalanche Aim for Series Clinch Against Wild in Crucial Game 5 Showdown

Colorado Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar made a pivotal decision by changing starting goaltenders ahead of Game 4 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Wild. This change proved effective, leading the Avalanche to a commanding 3-1 series lead as they prepare for a potential clinching Game 5 at home tonight. The game is set for an 8 p.m. ET puck drop, presenting a significant opportunity for the Avalanche to advance. Scott Wedgewood, previously the starting goaltender, had led the NHL in goals-against average and save percentage but struggled in Game 3. This opened the door for Mackenzie Blackwood, who made an impressive start in Game 4, stopping 19 of 21 shots in a 5-2 victory. Blackwood's performance solidifies his position as the starting goalie moving forward. Coach Bednar praised Blackwood, stating, "He was great. He went in the net, did exactly what I was hoping he would do." In addition to the goaltending change, the Avalanche faced injuries, losing Sam Malinski and Artturi Lehkonen shortly before the game. However, Josh Manson returned to the lineup, bringing his physical presence back to the ice. The Avalanche's offense has been prolific, with 20 goals from 15 different scorers in this series, tying the record for the most through four games in Stanley Cup playoff history. Notably, Nathan MacKinnon continues to shine, extending his points streak to five games. On the other hand, the Wild's star forwards Kirill Kaprizov and Matt Boldy struggled, each recording only a single shot and a combined minus-5 rating. Minnesota coach John Hynes remains optimistic, stating, "We have an opportunity to respond to what just happened." Despite being down in the series, the Wild have rallied from 3-1 deficits before, and with injuries affecting their lineup, they will need a strong performance to push the series further.

Source: CBS Sports - 2026-05-13