Wild vs. Avalanche Game 5: Takeaways as Minnesota blows 3-goal lead, Colorado advances to West final
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- The Minnesota Wild lost a 3-0 first-period lead and fell 4-3 in overtime to the Colorado Avalanche in Game 5, resulting in their elimination from the NHL playoffs and the Avalanche advancing to the Western Conference final.
- Brett Kulak scored the overtime winner for Colorado after Nathan MacKinnon tied the game late in regulation, extending his goal streak to six games and playing a pivotal role in the Avalanche's comeback.
- The Wild's penalty kill struggled, and a critical icing call against Ryan Hartman late in the third period led to Colorado’s comeback goals, marking the first time Minnesota blew a three-goal lead in a playoff game.
- Avalanche goalie Scott Wedgewood returned in relief after Mackenzie Blackwood struggled early, making seven saves without allowing a goal, contributing to Colorado's victory.
- Key Wild players Joel Eriksson Ek and Jonas Brodin were absent, impacting the team's depth and defensive stability, while the Wild's cautious play after building the lead was criticized as contributing to their loss.