Avalanche Dominate Predators in Game 4, Take Commanding Series Lead
In a matchup that promised intensity, the Colorado Avalanche outshone the Nashville Predators with a decisive 5-1 victory in Game 4 of their playoff series. This win not only puts the Avalanche ahead 3-1 in the series, but it also solidifies their grip on momentum as they look to close out the series in the coming games.
How the Game Unfolded
From the opening puck drop, the Avalanche seized control. The first period was highlighted by an explosive goal from Nathan MacKinnon, who swooped in to score at 12:35, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. Nashville struggled to match Colorado’s speed and physicality, with the Avalanche outshooting them 15-8 in the first period alone.
The second period saw Nashville attempt to mount a comeback with a power play opportunity after a delay-of-game penalty on Colorado. However, the Avalanche’s penalty kill was relentless, defusing the Predators’ offense with smart positioning and aggressive forechecking. Instead, it was Mikko Rantanen who struck again for Colorado, doubling their lead just minutes later.
As the third period commenced, the Predators desperately sought to shift the momentum. A brief glimmer of hope arose when Filip Forsberg netted a power-play goal, putting Nashville on the board at 3-1. However, the Avalanche rapidly dampened any hopes of a comeback, responding with two more goals, including an empty-netter by Gabriel Landeskog, sealing the deal.
Turning Points and Key Sequences
The turning point of the game hinged on a critical sequence late in the second period. With Nashville pressing to cut the deficit, a turning point came when an Avalanche player managed to clear the puck at a key moment during a Predators man-advantage. This play turned the tide back toward Colorado and showcased their disciplined response during high-pressure moments.
Coach Jared Bednar’s adjustments also shone through. By mixing up line pairings and ensuring the right matchups against Nashville’s top scorers, he neutralized several of the Predators’ key players. These decisions played a pivotal role in maintaining offensive pressure while minimizing defensive breakdowns.
Standout Performances
Nathan MacKinnon was an undeniable force all night, scoring a goal and contributing assists. His presence on the ice was felt in both offensive and defensive zones—a classic showcase of his two-way game. Alongside him, Cale Makar was crucial in managing the puck on the blue line, effectively handling Nashville’s attacks and generating scoring chances of his own.
Goaltender Darcy Kuemper put forth a stellar performance, stopping 28 shots and showcasing impressive poise under pressure. His strategic saves at crucial moments stifled any Nashville momentum, reinforcing his role as a playoff asset for Colorado.
For the Predators, Forsberg’s goal was a bright spot, but overall, the team struggled to generate consistent offense against the Avalanche’s disciplined defensive play.
Series or Playoff Context
Now holding a 3-1 advantage, the Avalanche are positioned to advance further in the playoffs. With Colorado winning three of the four games so far, the pressure shifts heavily onto Nashville. They must avoid elimination in the next game, where they will need to improve their power play and find ways to disrupt the Avalanche’s fast-paced game.
The dynamics of home-ice advantage may also play a significant role. If the Predators cannot seize Game 5 on their home turf, they risk a swift exit from the playoffs that would certainly weigh heavily on both players and coaching staff.
What Comes Next
Game 5 is set for Saturday at 7 PM EST at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, where the Predators will host the Avalanche. As they prepare, the Predators must find a way to crack the code of Colorado’s suffocating defense and capitalize more effectively on special teams.
Watch for potential line changes from Nashville and whether they’ll bring a more physical approach to rattle the Avalanche’s forwards.
What adjustment should the losing side focus on before Game 5?
