DENVER, CO – The Colorado Avalanche secured a dramatic 5-4 win against the New York Islanders at Ball Arena on Tuesday, with Nathan MacKinnon’s power-play goal in overtime being the decisive factor. This triumph marks the Avalanche’s third consecutive win and a further boost in their campaign.
MacKinnon, who also contributed two assists, sealed the victory 32 seconds into overtime with a powerful one-timer from the left circle, continuing his remarkable 20-game home point streak this season. His performance underscored his vital role in the team’s success, both as a scorer and a playmaker.
The Avalanche (24-11-3), exhibiting resilience and teamwork, witnessed significant contributions from Valeri Nichushkin, who scored two goals, and Jonathan Drouin, with a goal and an assist. Defenseman Cale Makar also made a notable impact with three assists, while goaltender Alexandar Georgiev made 18 saves, anchoring the defense.
Nichushkin’s performance was particularly standout, driving the team’s offense with determination and skill. His power-play goal in the third period was a critical moment, demonstrating his impact in crucial situations.
For the Islanders (17-10-10), despite the loss, there were moments of brilliance. Brock Nelson and Pierre Engvall led their offense, with Nelson registering a goal and an assist. However, the Islanders faced a setback with goaltender Semyon Varlamov leaving the game in the first period due to an injury, replaced by Ilya Sorokin, who made 23 saves.
The game started strongly for the Islanders, with Engvall scoring at 5:39 of the first period. The Avalanche responded swiftly, with Devon Toews tying the game shortly after. The Islanders regained the lead with Nelson’s and Simon Holmstrom’s goals, but Colorado’s relentless attack, led by Nichushkin and Drouin, brought the game to a tie.
In the second period, Alexander Romanov put the Islanders ahead again, but the Avalanche’s fighting spirit was undeterred. Nichushkin’s second goal of the night, a tap-in from a MacKinnon pass, set the stage for the thrilling overtime finish.
MacKinnon’s overtime goal not only won the game for Colorado but also etched his name further into the franchise’s history. His 20-game home point streak is now the second-longest in Avalanche/Quebec Nordiques history, trailing only Joe Sakic’s 23-game streak in 2000-01.
This game was a testament to the Avalanche’s depth and ability to perform under pressure, showcasing their status as one of the league’s top teams. The Islanders, despite their valiant effort and strong showing in parts of the game, will look to regroup and address their game management, as noted by coach Lane Lambert.
Injury concerns for the Islanders emerged, with no immediate updates on Varlamov or defenseman Robert Bortuzzo, who also left the game. As the season progresses, the Avalanche’s momentum and the Islanders’ resilience will be key factors in their respective quests for success.
