Avalanche-Wild Game 1 sees Cale Makar get last laugh on Marcus Foligno
The Denver Post • • sports
Key Points:
- Early in Game 1 of the Avalanche-Wild series, Minnesota's Marcus Foligno delivered a heavy hit on Colorado's Cale Makar, sending him to the locker room briefly, but Makar returned to score two third-period goals and finish with three points.
- The Avalanche overcame a wild, high-scoring first two periods where Minnesota led 5-4 at one point, ultimately winning 9-6 and taking a 1-0 series lead heading into Game 2.
- Despite defensive struggles and injuries, Colorado showed resilience, with key contributions from Makar, Nathan MacKinnon, and Nick Blankenburg, who scored his first postseason goal.
- The game featured a fast-paced, open style of play with little defense, contrasting with Colorado’s previous slower series against the Kings, and both teams displayed physicality and intensity throughout.
- Avalanche coach Jared Bednar emphasized the toughness required in the playoffs, noting many players are playing hurt but expected to perform at a high level.
