The Colorado Avalanche's playoff run ended in shocking fashion as they squandered a 2-0 lead in the third period of Game 7 against the Dallas Stars, ultimately losing 4-2. After goals from Josh Manson and Nathan MacKinnon, who scored just 31 seconds into the final frame, the Avalanche fell victim to four unanswered goals, including a hat trick by Mikko Rantanen. Rantanen's performance marked a historic feat as he became the first player to score a hat trick in a Game 7 third period. The Avalanche's playoff aspirations were dashed, leaving them with a dismal record of seven consecutive Game 7 losses.

Head coach Jared Bednar expressed the disappointment of the team, emphasizing the hard work put in by his players. MacKinnon was left stunned by the collapse, noting that the absence of key players did not excuse the loss. The Stars now advance to face either the Winnipeg Jets or the St. Louis Blues in the next round.

Mikko Rantanen's remarkable performance led the Dallas Stars to a thrilling 4-2 victory over the Colorado Avalanche in Game 7, as he scored three goals and added an assist in the decisive third period. Rantanen, facing his former team, showcased elite skill, which allowed Dallas to rally from a two-goal deficit, igniting the home crowd in the process. The Avalanche, after a promising start, including a power-play goal from Nathan MacKinnon and a shorthanded effort by Josh Manson, faltered under pressure.

Despite an initial 2-0 lead, the Avalanche struggled to maintain momentum as Rantanen answered back with two goals to tie the game. The Stars took advantage of Colorado's mistakes, including a broken stick by Cale Makar that led to a crucial goal. Ultimately, Dallas capitalized on its power plays, pushing past Colorado to advance in the playoffs, sending the Avalanche into a long offseason filled with questions.

Mikko Rantanen's remarkable performance led the Dallas Stars to a thrilling 4-2 victory over the Colorado Avalanche in Game 7, as he scored three goals and added an assist in the decisive third period. Rantanen, facing his former team, showcased elite skill, which allowed Dallas to rally from a two-goal deficit, igniting the home crowd in the process. The Avalanche, after a promising start, including a power-play goal from Nathan MacKinnon and a shorthanded effort by Josh Manson, faltered under pressure.

Despite an initial 2-0 lead, the Avalanche struggled to maintain momentum as Rantanen answered back with two goals to tie the game. The Stars took advantage of Colorado's mistakes, including a broken stick by Cale Makar that led to a crucial goal. Ultimately, Dallas capitalized on its power plays, pushing past Colorado to advance in the playoffs, sending the Avalanche into a long offseason filled with questions.

In the latest round of NHL injuries, key players are facing setbacks just as the season approaches its climax. Anaheim Ducks goaltender John Gibson returned to the crease after a seven-game absence but forward Nikita Nesterenko missed practice, leaving his status uncertain. Chicago Blackhawks' Colton Dach underwent x-rays for an upper-body injury, while Colorado Avalanche defenseman Josh Manson is sidelined for three to four weeks due to a similar issue.

Edmonton Oilers' superstar Connor McDavid left the game in the second period after taking a hit to the ribs. His immediate exit raises concerns, especially as the Oilers are gearing up for the playoffs. Goaltender Stuart Skinner also entered concussion protocol late in the game. Coach Kris Knoblauch has yet to provide updates on both McDavid and Skinner's conditions. Meanwhile, Leon Draisaitl's minor injury is being managed cautiously, with the team opting for a day-to-day approach to ensure his full health when the playoffs arrive.

Josh Manson of the Colorado Avalanche is sidelined for three to four weeks due to an upper-body injury sustained during a recent game against the Calgary Flames. The 33-year-old defender's absence adds to his injury woes this season, as he previously missed games for both lower and upper body injuries. Manson has been a steady presence on the ice, contributing one goal, 14 assists, and significant defensive stats, including 59 blocked shots and 105 hits over 48 games. He is currently in the third year of a four-year contract with the Avalanche.