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.