Sports
Avalanche Secure Playoff Berth with Dominant Win Against Blackhawks
The Colorado Avalanche defeated the Chicago Blackhawks 4-1 on Friday, becoming the first NHL team to clinch a playoff berth. The Avalanche's victory strengthened their hold on the Western Conference standings.
Colorado's 4-1 victory over Chicago marked their ninth consecutive post-season appearance. Martin Necas, Brock Nelson, Nazem Kadri and Valeri Nichushkin each scored for Colorado. Colorado (45-13-10) had lost four of five games, including a 7-2 loss to Pittsburgh. Avalanche coach Jared Bednar saw encouraging signs in the team's play during Wednesday's 2-1 shootout loss to Dallas. Necas said that if they maintain this level of play, they will be difficult to beat. The Avalanche now lead the Western Conference by four points over the Stars and ten over the Wild.
Key Facts
- The Colorado Avalanche defeated the Chicago Blackhawks 4-1 on Friday.
- Colorado clinched a playoff spot with the victory.
- The Avalanche have made the post-season for the ninth straight year.
- Martin Necas, Brock Nelson, Nazem Kadri, and Valeri Nichushkin scored for Colorado.
- Colorado is first in the Western Conference, four points ahead of Dallas.
- The Avalanche's record is 45-13-10.
- Colorado previously lost 7-2 to Pittsburgh.