On Saturday night in Denver, the Colorado Avalanche defeated the Chicago Blackhawks 3-1, with Cale Makar scoring two crucial goals. Gavin Brindley‘s early third-period goal broke the tie and helped Colorado maintain their position atop the NHL standings. The Avalanche, carrying the league’s best record, showcased resilience after a recent loss to Minnesota, while the Blackhawks struggled to generate offense throughout the game.
Colorado’s Defense and Goaltending Hold Firm
Mackenzie Blackwood played a critical role for the Avalanche, stopping 14 shots and successfully killing two penalties early in the third period. This defensive effort allowed Colorado to overcome moments when Chicago began to apply pressure, especially during a power play at the start of the third. Despite Chicago’s attempts, Blackwood’s strong glove save on a slap shot by Connor Bedard kept the game level until Brindley scored.
Scoring Breakdown and Game Progression
The Blackhawks opened the scoring as Bedard capitalized on a power play at 6:31 of the first period, marking their first shot on goal in nearly 20 minutes. The offense then stagnated, with Chicago failing to record a shot until late in the second period. Spencer Knight made 32 saves but was unable to stave off the comeback. Makar evened the score with a goal late in the second period at 19:51, revitalizing the Avalanche. Early in the third, Brindley netted the go-ahead goal by gathering a rebound near the crease and firing a wrist shot past Knight. Colorado sealed the victory when Makar scored an empty-net goal with just under two minutes remaining.
Standings Implications and Upcoming Schedules
With this win, the Avalanche improved to 87 points, securing a seven-point lead in the NHL standings over the Minnesota Wild, who have played two additional games. Dallas, sitting third, entered Saturday’s play with 79 points. For the Blackhawks, this loss deepened an eight-game losing streak that has included just 12 goals over those matches. Colorado will next face the Los Angeles Kings on Monday night, while Chicago heads to Utah for a Sunday matchup.
“After killing the penalty, Brindley scooped up a rebound near the crease and beat a prone Knight with a wrister into the top of the net.”? AP NHL
“Bedard scored for Chicago, which has lost eight of nine and continues to struggle to score.”? AP NHL
“Mackenzie Blackwood made 14 saves for Colorado, which killed off two penalties early in the third period to bounce back from a disappointing loss to Minnesota on Thursday night.”? AP NHL
