Avalanche Face Canadiens in Gripping Playoff Push Showdown

Montreal, Canada – The Colorado Avalanche conclude their three-game road trip with a crucial matchup against the Montreal Canadiens at Bell Centre on March 22, 2025. Both teams are vying for playoff positioning as the regular season draws to a close.

Colorado enters the contest following a decisive 5-1 victory over the Ottawa Senators on March 20. Forward Brock Nelson had a standout performance, scoring his first two goals with the Avalanche. Jonathan Drouin, Ross Colton, and Cale Makar also contributed with two points each, while Scott Wedgewood turned away 15 of 16 shots to secure the win. Nathan MacKinnon kicked off the scoring with his 28th goal of the season, setting the tone for Colorado’s dominant first period.

The Avalanche’s offense exploded early, fending off Ottawa’s attempts to gain momentum. Makar notched a power-play goal, bringing his total to 26 for the season, marking his 40th career power-play goal and setting a franchise record for defensemen. Joel Kiviranta added to the score, extending Colorado’s lead to 4-0 before Nelson capped off the first two frames with a power-play goal of his own, claiming his 22nd goal this season.

Despite Ottawa’s Dylan Cozens breaking through with a power-play goal late in the third, it was too little too late for the Senators, as Colorado remained focused on their playoff objectives. MacKinnon leads the NHL with 105 points and 77 assists, while Makar tops NHL defensemen with 81 points, showcasing the Avalanche’s offensive depth.

Montreal, on the other hand, is looking to rebound after a narrow 4-3 overtime loss to the New York Islanders on March 20. The Canadiens saw goals from Joshua Roy and Patrik Laine equalize at crucial moments, yet Bo Horvat’s second goal in overtime sealed Montreal’s fate. Nick Suzuki continues to shine for the Canadiens with 71 points, leading the team in scoring.

Historically, the Avalanche hold a favorable record of 24-12-4 against the Canadiens in 40 regular-season matchups. However, the only prior encounter this season saw Montreal edge Colorado 2-1 in a shootout on January 4.

As each team prepares for the playoffs, every point gained or lost will be pivotal. Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar noted the importance of their recent acquisitions and the determined approach of his players. “We’ve been doing a good job of getting the wins. The results have been coming for us. But it’s because, number one, we’re committed to what we’re doing right now,” said Bednar. “The players that we added at the deadline are making a huge difference.”

With the game set to be broadcast on My20 and Altitude Sports Radio, both Avalanche and Canadiens fans are eager to witness this significant regular-season battle.