Game Recap: Avalanche Freeze Flames in Game 4
In a gripping showdown in Denver, the Colorado Avalanche edged out the Calgary Flames 4-3 in overtime, taking a commanding 3-1 lead in their first-round playoff series. This win leaves the Flames on the brink of elimination, while the Avalanche can taste a potential series victory in Game 5.
How the Game Unfolded
The matchup got off to an electric start, with both teams trading scoring chances early in the first period. The Avalanche took the lead at 3:45 into the game when Nathan MacKinnon unleashed a stunning laser from the right circle after a beautiful feed from Gabriel Landeskog. The Flames responded swiftly, equalizing just five minutes later with a powerful shot from Matthew Tkachuk, showcasing his hallmark determination.
As the first period progressed, the momentum see-sawed with both sides exhibiting tenacious forechecking. The Avalanche struck again before the intermission as Mikko Rantanen found the net, ending the period ahead 2-1. But Calgary refused to go quietly. Early in the second, the Flames capitalized on a power play, with Johnny Gaudreau burying a rebound to shift the momentum right back.
The back and forth continued throughout the second period, but neither team could secure a lasting advantage. It wasn’t until late in the third that the Avalanche regained control with Rantanen scoring his second goal, putting Colorado up 3-2. However, in a crucial moment for Calgary, Elias Lindholm tied the game with just 36 seconds remaining in regulation, forcing an exhilarating overtime period.
Turning Points and Key Sequences
The final moments of regulation were intense, as Calgary’s goaltender Jacob Markström made a remarkable save during an Avalanche power play, keeping his team in the game. That save ultimately led to Lindholm’s equalizer, shifting the pressure back onto Colorado heading into overtime.
During the extra frame, the atmosphere was electric, with both teams carefully navigating their chances. The defining moment came when the Avalanche’s defense stood tall against a Flames push, leading to a swift counterattack. After a brilliant stretch pass from Devon Toews, a pin-point shot by Rantanen sealed the deal and sent the home crowd into a frenzy.
Coach Jared Bednar’s decision to prioritize speed in the overtime lineup paid off, as the fresh legs of Rantanen and MacKinnon were crucial in exploiting Calgary’s tired defenders.
Standout Performances
Mikko Rantanen was undoubtedly the star of the night, registering two goals and an assist, displaying his elite offensive prowess. Nathan MacKinnon also shone with a goal and an assist, proving to be a constant threat. On the defensive end, Cale Makar’s composure under pressure allowed the Avalanche to maintain control during high-stakes moments.
For Calgary, Matthew Tkachuk’s goal and relentless work ethic were commendable, while Lindholm’s late-game heroics kept hope alive for the Flames. Markström, despite the loss, displayed incredible resilience with 38 saves, highlighted by several critical stops that kept Calgary in contention until the final minute.
Series or Playoff Context
With this victory, Colorado now leads the series 3-1, putting them one win away from advancing to the second round. Game 5 will shift back to Calgary, where the Flames will need to pull off a win to extend their playoff journey. The dynamics of pressure have visibly shifted; while the Avalanche can afford to play with confidence, the Flames are left to redefine their strategy in a do-or-die situation.
As the series progresses, home-ice advantage could play a pivotal role, especially under the deafening roar of Calgary’s fans. The Flames will need to harness that energy to build momentum and disrupt Colorado’s rhythm.
What Comes Next
The teams will reconvene for Game 5 on Friday at the Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgary. The Flames will have to show tactical adjustments, particularly in their defensive zone, to counteract the explosive offense of the Avalanche. Watch for Calgary to focus on getting more shots through to ease the pressure on their netminder, Markström, who has shown he can handle the heat but needs more support.
As the stakes grow higher, one question lingers for fans: What adjustment should the losing side focus on before Game 5?
