The Colorado Avalanche defeated the Minnesota Wild 4-3 in overtime on May 13, 2026, clinching their spot in the Western Conference final after a dramatic comeback.
Why it matters: This win marks a turning point for the Avalanche, who had struggled to secure series victories at home. The victory also ends the Wild's season, marking their deepest playoff run since 2015.
The Avalanche advanced to the Western Conference final for the eighth time since relocating to Denver in 1995-96.
This game showcased the resilience of the Avalanche, overcoming a 3-0 deficit to clinch the series.
For the Wild, this loss highlights an unfortunate trend of failing to capitalize on early leads in high-stakes games.
Driving the news: The game began with a flurry of excitement as the Wild raced to a 3-0 lead within the first period. Marcus Johansson scored just 34 seconds into the game, followed by two goals from Nick Foligno.
Johansson's goal gave the Wild immediate momentum, setting the tone for a strong first period.
Foligno's two goals marked his first playoff scores for Minnesota, contributing significantly to the early lead.
Colorado's goalie Mackenzie Blackwood was replaced by Scott Wedgewood after the first period due to the Wild's aggressive offensive performance.
State of play: The Avalanche, facing elimination, displayed remarkable tenacity as they clawed back from a seemingly insurmountable deficit.
Colorado trailed 3-0 midway through the second period but began their comeback with a goal from Parker Kelly.
Jack Drury and Nathan MacKinnon each scored late in the third period, tying the game with just 1:23 remaining.
Brett Kulak sealed the game with a goal 3:52 into overtime, completing the Avalanche's comeback.
The big picture: This game captured the high stakes of playoff hockey, where momentum can shift dramatically in a matter of minutes.
The Wild's inability to maintain their lead reflects the pressure of playoff hockey, where every mistake can be magnified.
Colorado's comeback serves as a reminder of their championship pedigree and ability to perform under pressure.
The Avalanche will face the winner of the series between the Vegas Golden Knights and the Anaheim Ducks in the next round.
What they're saying: Players and coaches from both teams expressed their thoughts on the thrilling matchup.
"We just didn't execute when we needed to," Wild coach John Hynes said, referring to the team's late-game struggles.
"This is a huge win for us, and it shows our determination to push forward in the playoffs," Avalanche captain Nathan MacKinnon stated.
Foligno lamented the missed opportunities, stating, "We had them on the ropes but couldn't finish the job. It's heartbreaking."
By the numbers: Key statistics from the game highlight the Wild's strong start and the Avalanche's resilience.
The Wild had a total of 13 shots in the first period, scoring three goals.
Colorado managed to outshoot Minnesota 33-20 over the course of the game, demonstrating their offensive pressure.
Jesper Wallstedt, Minnesota's goalie, made 30 saves, but the late-game goals proved costly.
Between the lines: The narrative of the game was shaped by injuries and strategic decisions that affected both teams.
Wild defenseman Zach Bogosian was ruled out with a lower-body injury, exacerbating the team's defensive struggles.
Colorado's decision to switch goalies after the first period proved effective, as Wedgewood made seven saves and helped stabilize the team.
Injuries to key players like Joel Eriksson Ek and Jonas Brodin left Minnesota's depth tested throughout the series.
What's next: With the series concluded, both teams are now looking ahead.
The Avalanche will prepare for the Western Conference final, where they await the outcome of the Vegas vs. Anaheim series.
The Wild will regroup and assess their roster as they look to build on this season's performance for future playoff runs.
Fans will eagerly await to see how Colorado capitalizes on their momentum heading into the next round.