Avalanche score comeback goal in wild Game 6 against Stars

On May 1, 2025, in Denver, Nathan MacKinnon of the Colorado Avalanche achieved what he described as one of his luckiest playoff goals, contributing significantly to his team's 7-4 victory over the Dallas Stars in Game 6. With 10:56 remaining in the game, his shot deflected off a Dallas player, allowing the Avalanche to take the lead and stave off elimination in their first-round playoff series. The game was marked by several fortunate rebounds for Colorado, including a goal from Valeri Nichushkin, who, after facing struggles earlier in the series, also benefited from a deflection. Meanwhile, Cale Makar managed to score in an unusual fashion, wobbling his shot that turned into an ideal assist for Artturi Lehkonen's goal. The Avalanche's success in this game led to a decisive Game 7 scheduled for May 3, 2025, in Dallas, where both teams are expected to be desperate for victory. Head coaches Pete DeBoer of the Stars and Jared Bednar of the Avalanche have contrasting histories in Game 7s, with DeBoer holding an impressive 8-0 record from previous playoff runs, while Bednar is yet to secure a victory in his three attempts. This creates an interesting narrative for the upcoming clash, as both coaches are set to alter their strategies to maximize their team's chances of advancing in the postseason. DeBoer believes the game will ultimately depend on player execution, noting that the players are responsible for determining the outcome on the ice. The stakes are high as the Avalanche face off against the Stars in this fully tied series. The Dallas team, enjoying the home advantage, hopes to capitalize on their historical success against the Avalanche, notably their 3-0 record in previous Game 7 encounters. Additionally, the Stars boast a formidable playoff performance track record in recent years, underpinned by their journey to the Stanley Cup Finals in two consecutive seasons. With both teams on edge, the performance of Jake Oettinger as goalkeeper will be essential for Dallas while Colorado's Mackenzie Blackwood seeks to show strength in his first playoff series. The upcoming game promises to be intense, marked by tension and high emotion as each team fights to secure a place in the next round and move closer to playoff glory.