- Parker Kelly nets first two-goal game of career in crucial victory
- Avalanche extend points streak to eight games (7-0-1), nearing Central Division leaders
- Flames’ regulation loss snaps five-game point streak, wild card race tightens
- Colorado continues NHL dominance with league-leading 92 third-period goals
The Colorado Avalanche delivered a commanding performance against the Calgary Flames, securing a 4-2 win Friday night. Parker Kelly emerged as the hero, scoring twice to end a 20-game goalless drought. Ryan Lindgren and Valeri Nichushkin also found the net, while goaltender Scott Wedgewood made 22 saves to anchor the victory.
Lindgren opened the scoring late in the first period, snapping a 28-game scoring drought. Kelly doubled the lead in the second, capitalizing on defensive pressure. Calgary’s Blake Coleman briefly revived hopes with his first goal in 15 games, but Kelly’s swift response halted momentum. Jonathan Huberdeau’s power-play goal brought tension in the final minutes, but Nichushkin’s empty-netter sealed Colorado’s win.
The Avalanche’s third-period prowess remains unmatched, with 92 goals this season—a league high. This strategic edge has propelled them within three points of the Dallas Stars in the Central Division. Meanwhile, Calgary faces mounting pressure in the Western Conference wild card race after failing to convert key opportunities.
Industry Insight: Depth scoring, exemplified by Kelly and Lindgren, is critical in tight playoff races. Colorado’s ability to rally beyond star players underscores roster strength. Additionally, teams with strong third-period performance win 68% of close games, per NHL analytics. The Flames’ loss highlights goaltending inconsistencies—a recurring issue for teams on playoff bubbles.
Regional Impact: Similar to the 2022 Florida Panthers, Colorado’s third-period dominance could position them as Cup contenders. However, injuries like Mikael Backlund’s (ending a 328-game streak) test roster resilience. Upcoming games against Dallas and Toronto will further test both teams’ playoff mettle.