Colorado finally secured a lead against the Dallas Stars in Game 5, with defenseman Cale Makar scoring two crucial goals to help the Avalanche secure a 5-3 victory. This win snapped their three-game losing streak and extended the second-round Western Conference series.
Makar's second goal came after Casey Mittelstadt's go-ahead tally in the third period, marking the first time Colorado had led in the series since the series opener. League MVP finalist Nathan MacKinnon expressed the importance of playing with a lead, stating that it prevents them from constantly chasing the game.
Avalanche goalie Alexandar Georgiev made 23 saves, while Dallas goalie Jake Oettinger stopped 22 shots. Notable goals for the Stars included Joe Pavelski's first goal of the playoffs and goals from Miro Heiskanen and rookie Logan Stankoven.
Game 6 is set to take place in Colorado, where the Stars have been dominant, outscoring the Avs 9-2 in Games 3 and 4. Colorado managed to score on both of their power-play opportunities in Game 5 after struggling in previous games.
Cale Makar's performance was particularly impressive, with his power-play goal tying the game in the second period and his unassisted goal giving the Avalanche a crucial lead. Head coach Jared Bednar praised the team's response after falling behind in the series, highlighting the importance of an aggressive mentality.
Rantanen's secondary assist on Makar's first goal marked his 100th career playoff point, making him only the eighth NHL player to achieve this milestone in 80 postseason games. Bednar's 49th playoff victory tied him with Bob Hartley for the most in franchise history.
With Game 6 looming, both teams are gearing up for a crucial matchup as the Avalanche aim to continue their momentum and the Stars look to bounce back on the road.
