The Colorado Avalanche have advanced to the second round of the Stanley Cup playoffs after securing a 5-1 victory over the Los Angeles Kings. This win completed a four-game sweep of the Kings in the Western Conference First Round.
MacKinnon Leads Offensive Surge
Nathan MacKinnon powered the Avalanche offense with two goals and one assist. MacKinnon opened the scoring at 13:13 of the first period with a power-play goal, later adding an empty-net goal at 14:22 of the third period.
Cale Makar extended the lead in the second period, whereas Nicolas Roy and Devon Toews both found the net during the third period to seal the result. Gabriel Landeskog contributed significantly to the effort, recording two assists.
Kings Fall in First-Round Sweep
The Los Angeles Kings managed a single goal in the contest, scored by Joel Edmundson at 13:43 of the second period. Anton Forsberg made 27 saves on 31 shots in the loss.
The game served as the final professional appearance for Kings captain Anze Kopitar. The 38-year-old center had previously announced in September that the 2025-26 season would be his last in the league.
Looking Ahead to the Second Round
As the top seed from the Central Division and Western Conference, the Presidents’ Trophy-winning Avalanche now await their next opponent. Colorado is scheduled to play the winner of the series between the Dallas Stars and the Minnesota Wild.
That series is currently tied 2-2 following a 3-2 overtime victory by the Wild on Saturday. The outcome of that matchup will determine the Avalanche’s next challenge in their quest for the championship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of Game 4?
The Colorado Avalanche defeated the Los Angeles Kings 5-1.
Which Colorado players scored goals in the game?
Nathan MacKinnon (two goals), Cale Makar, Nicolas Roy, and Devon Toews all scored for the Avalanche.
How many saves did Scott Wedgewood record?
Scott Wedgewood made 24 saves on 25 shots.
How do you think the Avalanche will adjust their strategy for the second round?