A late third-period surge saw the Avalanche extend their lead to 5-2 when a breakout play from Lehkonen set up MacKinnon for a quick, left-slot shot that found the back of the net, marking his seventh goal of the season. The goal came on the heels of a swift transition, highlighting the team’s ability to capitalize on defensive mistakes and maintain offensive momentum. Fans and analysts will be watching to see if this momentum carries into the final minutes. The play underscores the importance of secondary scoring in tight games and the impact of strong defensive zone exits.

The Avalanche took a 5-2 lead at 4:18 of the third period when MacKinnon scored his seventh goal of the season via a shot from the left slot off the rush after he was sprung by Lehkonen's neutral-zone ...