Three keys for the Avs
Power up. The Avs are 4-1 when scoring a power-play goal in the postseason, and 2-3 when they don’t. They were 0-of-3 in Saturday’s Game 5 and failed to convert on the first opportunity after the game’s first penalty — a high-stick by Timo Meier that negated an apparent San Jose goal. Scoring at that time could have shifted all the momentum Colorado’s way. Most teams still playing aren’t scoring much with the man-advantage, but it’s almost always a secret of success and the Avs need to capitalize Monday with their season on the line.
Keep them in check. San Jose’s defensemen — particularly all-stars Erik Karlsson and Brent Burns — led too many end-to-end rushes with their skating and passing in Game 5. The Avalanche needs to ramp up the physical game on those two, making them pay by finishing checks after they distribute the puck. If Karlsson and Burns know they’re going to get hit on every shift, they’re more likely to get rid of the puck quicker, and Colorado doesn’t want the puck in their hands.
MacKinnon factor. had his worst game of the playoffs in Game 5. He couldn’t contain Tomas Hertl from scoring the gritty game-winning goal and MacKinnon had zero shots through two periods and just one for the game. MacKinnon could be the best remaining player in the playoffs and he needs to again show that in order for the Avalanche to force Game 7.
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