A fluky own goal, Nichushkin’s double trouble, and MacKinnon’s magic send the series back to Dallas.
The Colorado Avalanche refused to let their season melt away, storming back with a 7–4 victory over the Dallas Stars in Game 6, tying the series 3–3 and setting up a do-or-die Game 7 in Dallas.
Valeri Nichushkin led the charge with two goals, while Nathan MacKinnon added a goal and two assists. MacKinnon’s go-ahead goal in the third period was credited after a puck he sent into traffic deflected off a Dallas player and into the net—a stroke of luck that turned the tide in Colorado’s favor.
Cale Makar contributed a goal and two assists, and Martin Necas, Artturi Lehkonen, and Josh Manson also found the back of the net. Goalie Mackenzie Blackwood made 22 saves to secure the win for the Avalanche.
The Stars had a strong second period, with Roope Hintz scoring twice and Mikko Rantanen and Mikael Granlund each adding a goal. However, defensive lapses in the third period, including the own goal, proved costly.
Game 7 is set for Saturday in Dallas, where both teams will battle for a spot in the next round of the playoffs.
Looking for more NHL playoff chaos?
Dive into all the buzzer-beaters, goalie heroics, and heartbreaks here at LatestPlayoffNews.com — your daily dose of puck drops and popcorn. 🏒🍿