Nathan MacKinnon showcased his elite skills during Game 5 of the Stanley Cup playoffs against the Dallas Stars, contributing significantly to the Colorado Avalanche's offensive efforts. He assisted on an Artturi Lehkonen goal and scored another, marking his 68th career playoff assist, making him the Avalanche's third all-time leader in this category. This milestone surpassed Mikko Rantanen, with only Joe Sakic and Peter Forsberg ahead of him. Despite MacKinnon's impressive performance, the Avalanche fell short, losing 6-2, and now trail the series 3-2, as they head back to Ball Arena for Game 6.

Nathan MacKinnon shined in the Avalanche's playoff opener, despite taking a high stick to the face. He contributed to two of Colorado's peculiar goals, ultimately sealing the match with an empty-netter, marking his 50th career playoff goal. Goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood made a strong debut with 23 saves, helping the Avalanche secure a 5-1 victory against the Dallas Stars.

The second period saw Colorado take control with two critical goals, the first being a deflection off Ilya Lyubushkin that slipped past Jake Oettinger. MacKinnon assisted on Artturi Lehkonen's goal, which was reviewed but ruled legal. The Stars, now facing an 0-7 series opener record under coach Pete DeBoer, must regroup before the next game.

Nathan MacKinnon showcased his playmaking and scoring prowess as the Colorado Avalanche triumphed over the Dallas Stars 5-1 in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series. MacKinnon was involved in both of Colorado's unusual goals in the second period, scoring on a deflected shot and assisting on Artturi Lehkonen's goal, which was validated after a review. The Stars, who suffered their eighth consecutive series opener loss under coach Pete DeBoer, saw their playoff struggles continue. Colorado's Devon Toews scored to extend their lead before MacKinnon's empty-net goal sealed the game, marking his 50th career playoff goal.

Despite a strong season, the Stars ended the regular season with a disappointing 0-5-2 streak, struggling to capitalize on early leads in their games. Game 2 is set to take place in Dallas, where the Stars will look to bounce back and avoid falling into a deeper hole against a formidable Avalanche squad. MacKinnon's performance not only highlighted his critical role for Colorado but also showcased the potential impact of the Avalanche's mid-season trades, including the acquisition of goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood, who made 23 saves in this match.

Nathan MacKinnon was pivotal in the Colorado Avalanche's 5-1 victory over the Dallas Stars in Game 1 of their playoff series. MacKinnon scored a strange goal after his shot deflected off defenseman Ilya Lyubushkin, adding to his assist on Artturi Lehkonen's goal, which was ruled legal after a review. The Avalanche capitalized on a double minor penalty against the Stars, showcasing their power-play strength. With this win, the Avalanche also extended the Stars' unfortunate streak, marking their eighth consecutive playoff series loss since 2022.

The game also highlighted the struggles of Stars' goalie Jake Oettinger, who faced relentless pressure and finished with 19 saves. Colorado's Devon Toews further solidified their lead, while MacKinnon's empty-net goal marked his 50th career playoff goal. The Stars will need to regroup quickly as they face a crucial Game 2 at home, trying to break their series-opening drought under coach Pete DeBoer.

Gabe Landeskog's return to the Colorado Avalanche lineup is inching closer as he recently participated in practice as the No. 1 center. Skating alongside Valeri Nichushkin and Artturi Lehkonen, he filled in while Nathan MacKinnon had a day off. Coach Jared Bednar expressed optimism, noting Landeskog's increased ice time and the possibility of a conditioning stint with the Colorado Eagles, which could pave the way for his return to the NHL.

However, Landeskog's journey back from knee cartilage replacement surgery remains uncertain, with no clear timeline for his comeback. There have been several setbacks since his surgery in May 2023, hindering his progress. He has begun to absorb light contact but faces the challenge of re-acclimating to game conditions. If he successfully joins the Eagles, it could serve as a critical test before his anticipated return to the Avalanche lineup.