The 2025 NHL playoffs heat up as Game 4 between the Dallas Stars and Colorado Avalanche approaches on Saturday night. With the Stars leading the series 2-1, this pivotal matchup at Ball Arena is crucial for the Avalanche to avoid a potentially disastrous 3-1 series deficit. The Avalanche displayed their dominant potential in Game 1, but have since faltered, raising the stakes for Game 4.

Expert Jimmie Kaylor has shared his insights on the betting landscape surrounding this matchup, offering a Same Game Parlay that promises significant returns. He anticipates the Avalanche to reclaim their form, predicting a strong defensive effort and a bounce-back performance. Key players like Nathan MacKinnon, who has already made an impact this series, are expected to shine, further underlining the importance of Game 4 for the Avalanche's playoff aspirations.

Gabriel Landeskog, the captain of the Colorado Avalanche, is poised to make his long-awaited return to the NHL after nearly three years due to a chronic knee injury. The Avalanche's head coach Jared Bednar hinted at a 'good chance' for Landeskog's comeback in Game 3 against the Dallas Stars, where the series stands tied at 1-1. Landeskog last played in the NHL on June 26, 2022, following the Avalanche's Stanley Cup victory.

His activation from long-term injured reserve has created a buzz among teammates and fans alike. Landeskog's presence on the ice could provide a much-needed boost to the Avalanche's morale, as noted by teammate Cale Makar. The anticipation builds not just for his comeback but for what it represents - a testament to resilience and leadership during this playoff run.

Cale Makar has been named as a prospective witness in the sexual assault trial involving five players from Canada’s 2018 World Junior Championship hockey team, including Dillon Dube and Carter Hart. The trial, taking place in London, Ontario, has drawn significant attention as the players have pleaded not guilty. Makar, who has repeatedly stated he was not present during the incident, has cooperated fully with Hockey Canada’s investigation. The trial is expected to span approximately eight weeks, with Makar's role still unclear.

The 2024-25 Fantasy Hockey Awards highlighted some remarkable performances this season. Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets took home MVP honors, excelling with 47 wins, a 2.00 goals-against average, and leading the league in shutouts. Pierre-Luc Dubois, traded to the Washington Capitals, emerged as the Sleeper of the Year with a career-high 65 points. Meanwhile, Auston Matthews was deemed the Bust of the Year after a disappointing drop in goals compared to his previous season. Cale Makar's stellar play earned him Defenseman MVP, while Lane Hutson shone as the Rookie of the Year, tying an NHL record for assists by a rookie defenseman. The Waiver Wire Pickup of the Year went to Aliaksei Protas, who upped his production significantly this season.

Mackenzie Blackwood made a significant impact in his Stanley Cup Playoffs debut, leading the Colorado Avalanche to a commanding 5-1 victory over the Dallas Stars. Blackwood stopped 23 shots and showcased remarkable defensive skills as the Avalanche took a 1-0 series lead for the second consecutive year against the Stars.

Nathan MacKinnon contributed with two goals and an assist, while Artturi Lehkonen opened the scoring in a bizarre fashion, curling a shot into the net even as he fell. Cale Makar's 60th playoff assist further solidified his reputation as one of the league's premier defensemen. The Avalanche's strategy paid off, especially in the closing minutes of the game when they scored three goals, demonstrating their offensive prowess.