In the final game of their regular season, the Colorado Avalanche faced a disappointing 4-1 defeat against the Vancouver Canucks, missing several key players including Nathan MacKinnon, the reigning MVP. Despite the loss, goalie Mackenzie Blackwood emphasized the importance of building good habits heading into the playoffs. The Avalanche now prepare for a first-round matchup against the Dallas Stars, who eliminated them in the previous playoffs.

Vancouver took an early lead with goals from Jake DeBrusk and Kiefer Sherwood, who has exceeded expectations this season by scoring 19 goals. A late goal by Devon Toews provided a brief glimmer of hope for the Avalanche, but the Canucks extended their lead in the third period. Additionally, Cale Makar continues to set franchise records for defensemen, scoring 92 points this season. Meanwhile, the Avalanche are cautiously optimistic about the return of Gabriel Landeskog after a long injury absence.