Colorado exploded for a 9-6 win in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals, setting a franchise playoff record with nine goals. The 15‑goal total marked only the tenth such game in NHL history and the first since the 2022 Oilers‑Flames clash. Eight Avs skaters found the net, including Nathan MacKinnon’s empty‑net clincher. The wild pace kept fans on edge.

Blue‑liner Cale Makar returned from a brief injury to score two third‑period goals and an assist, putting him on pace for a four‑game playoff goal streak. Four Colorado defensemen scored, a franchise first, and five blue‑liners combined for five goals, a rarity matched by the 1992 Kings and 1985 North Stars. The Wild, missing Joel Eriksson‑Ek and Jonas Brodin, fell to a seventh straight series loss after Game 1.

All signs point to another Avalanche victory in Game 2, though the offensive fireworks should taper. Colorado’s goaltender Scott Wedgewood faced six goals in the opener, yet the team’s depth gave them a margin. Minnesota’s backup Jesper Wallstedt remains under fire, but coach John Hynes has stuck with him despite the onslaught. Expect a scoreline as the series shifts toward defense. Both will tweak special teams.