Colorado Avalanche Outlast Minnesota Wild in Wild Game 1, 9-6

DENVER, CO — May 4, 2026 In a game that defied expectations and left fans on the edge of their seats, the Colorado Avalanche overcame a three-goal deficit to defeat the Minnesota Wild 9-6 in Game 1 of their second-round playoff series. The high-scoring, back-and-forth affair saw 15 combined goals—tying it for the second-most in a playoff game since 1994—and featured five goals in each period.

Key Moments and Turning Points

The Avalanche started strong, taking a commanding 3-0 lead just 6:47 into the game. However, the Wild rallied fiercely, tying the game and eventually taking a 5-4 lead late in the second period on a short-handed goal from Marcus Foligno. The Avalanche’s resilience was on full display as they clawed back into the game, with Cale Makar emerging as a hero.

Makar’s Return and Game-Winning Goals

Makar, who had left the game in the first period after a hard hit from Foligno, returned in the third period and scored twice, including the game-sealing goal with 2:54 remaining. His two goals helped the Avalanche overcome the deficit, and Nathan MacKinnon added an empty-net goal with 2:08 left to secure the win.

Cale Makar scored twice in the third period after returning from an earlier injury and the Colorado Avalanche overcame blowing a three-goal lead to beat the Minnesota Wild 9-6.

AP Sports Writer Josh Dubow, CBS Sports

A Game of Records and High Scoring

This game marked the 10th playoff game ever with at least 15 combined goals and the second since 1994. Fourteen different players scored in the game, tying it for the second-most in a playoff game. The Avalanche’s Scott Wedgewood, who had the league’s best goals-against average (GAA) this season, struggled with six goals allowed, while Jesper Wallstedt of the Wild made 34 saves.

Looking Ahead to Game 2

Game 2 of the series will take place on Tuesday night at Ball Arena in Denver. The Avalanche will glance to build on their momentum, while the Wild will aim to regroup and find a way to even the series. With both teams featuring elite goaltending and strong offensive firepower, this series promises to be a thrilling test of endurance and skill.

Key Takeaways

• Resilience Wins: The Avalanche’s ability to overcome a three-goal deficit showcased their mental toughness and determination.
• Makar’s Impact: Cale Makar’s return and two goals were pivotal in turning the game around.
• High Scoring: With 15 combined goals, this game was a testament to the offensive firepower of both teams.
• Goaltending Struggles: Both Wedgewood and Wallstedt faced challenges, allowing multiple goals in a high-scoring environment.
• Series Stakes: The Avalanche hold a slight edge with home-ice advantage, but the Wild are far from out of the fight.

FAQs

What was the final score of Game 1 between the Avalanche and Wild?

The Colorado Avalanche defeated the Minnesota Wild 9-6.

Who scored the game-winning goals for the Avalanche?

Cale Makar scored twice in the third period, including the game-sealing goal, and Nathan MacKinnon added an empty-net goal to secure the win.

When and where is Game 2?

Game 2 will take place on Tuesday, May 6, 2026, at Ball Arena in Denver.

What records were set in this game?

This game tied for the second-most goals scored in a playoff game since 1994, with 15 combined goals, and featured 14 different players scoring.

How did the Avalanche overcome their three-goal deficit?

The Avalanche’s resilience and strong third-period performance, highlighted by Cale Makar’s two goals, allowed them to overcome the deficit and secure the victory.

Forward Outlook

The Avalanche enter Game 2 with momentum on their side, but the Wild will be hungry to even the series. With both teams boasting top-tier talent and goaltending, this series has the potential to go the distance. Fans can expect more high-scoring, intense battles as these two teams battle for a spot in the Western Conference Finals.