The Colorado Avalanche is making headlines in the NHL playoffs as they take on the Seattle Kraken in a tight series. In Game 4, the Kraken managed to come out on top with a 3-2 victory over the Avalanche, but the Avalanche quickly made a comeback in Game 5, winning with the score of 4-1 (USA TODAY Sportsbook Wire).
However, the Avalanche’s victory in Game 5 came at a cost as one of their star players, Cale Makar, was suspended for the game after delivering a hit that violated league rules. The hit was made against Jared McCann of the Kraken and resulted in Makar’s suspension. The Avalanche will have to play without Makar in Game 6 (CBS News).
Despite Makar’s absence, the Avalanche’s penalty kill remains a topic of discussion. In their off-day between games, the team focused on improving their penalty kill strategy. The team’s media availability provided some insights into the team’s efforts (Colorado Hockey Now).
Additionally, the Avalanche is facing a setback as Valeri Nichushkin, one of their forward players, left the team for personal reasons, and there is no timeline for his return. Nichushkin’s departure puts added pressure on the Avalanche’s offense, especially as they go deeper into the playoffs (The Denver Gazette).
Despite these setbacks, the Avalanche remains a notable team in the playoffs, and their upcoming Game 6 against the Kraken will prove to be a critical match. The winner of this game takes a 3-2 series lead and moves one step closer to advancing to the Second Round (WinnersandWhiners.com). Hockey fans can follow the action live on TV or stream online (Sports Illustrated), and plenty will be rooting for the Avalanche to rise above their challenges and keep pushing forward in their playoff campaign.
