Curse Broken: Avalanche Ends Overtime Losing Streak with 5-4 Win
The overtime curse is officially over, and Gavin Brindley is proving to be a key player for the Colorado Avalanche. Brindley scored the overtime winner, ending Colorado's five-game consecutive overtime losing streak with a 5-4 victory Sunday night at Rogers Arena.
Nathan MacKinnon's Stellar Performance
Nathan MacKinnon led the charge with an impressive five-point night, scoring twice—including a power-play goal—and adding three assists. He finished the weekend with nine points after an outstanding two-goal, two-assist game in Colorado’s 9–1 win over the Oilers on Saturday. MacKinnon now leads the NHL in goals (14) and points (29).
Strong Contributions Across the Team
Other Avalanche players also made significant impacts. Artturi Lehkonen scored twice, including a power-play goal, helping to secure the win. Defensemen Cale Makar and Valeri Nichushkin each recorded two assists. Meanwhile, goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood made 29 saves in his second start this season.
Vancouver's Efforts
Vancouver's goals came from Linus Karlsson, Kiefer Sherwood, Jake DeBrusk, and Drew O’Connor. Their goalie Kevin Lankinen stopped 27 shots during the game.
Key Play Leading to the Opening Goal
At 6:41 of the first period, Makar skillfully carried the puck through the neutral zone into the right circle and passed to Nichushkin. Nichushkin faked a shot with a toe-drag, momentarily freezing the defense. This created the perfect opportunity for MacKinnon to unleash a one-timer, beating Lankinen and giving Colorado a 1–0 lead.
“MacKinnon’s goal completely fooled Lankinen, setting the tone for Colorado’s offensive pressure,”
Shortly after, upon Ross Colton drawing a slashing penalty, the Avalanche capitalized again on the power play.
Author's summary: Colorado Avalanche snapped their overtime losing streak with a thrilling 5-4 win, powered by MacKinnon’s dominance and Brindley’s clutch overtime goal.