Avalanche’s Unforgettable Rally: From 3–0 Down to Western Conference Final

Colorado erases a three-goal deficit to stun the Wild in Game 5 and advance with a 4–1 series win

In a breathtaking Game 5 at Ball Arena on May 13, 2026, the Colorado Avalanche overturned a three-goal first-period deficit to defeat the Minnesota Wild 4–3 in overtime, clinching the series 4–1 and punching their ticket to the Western Conference Final. This article explores the key moments, player performances, strategic shifts, and what lies ahead.

A Devastating Start — and Immediate Response

Minnesota struck just 34 seconds into the game as Marcus Johansson buried an early goal, setting the tone for what looked like a commanding performance . Nick Foligno doubled the lead at 11:03 and added another at 15:56, the second off a Nico Sturm assist, giving the Wild a stunning 3–0 advantage after one period . Colorado’s goaltender, Mackenzie Blackwood, had allowed all three on 13 shots, prompting coach Jared Bednar to make a pivotal switch — bringing in Scott Wedgewood to spark a turnaround .

Colorado’s Resurgence Begins

The second period marked the turning point. At 11:00, Parker Kelly redirected a Brent Burns shot to get Colorado on the board . The Avalanche steadily built momentum, outshooting the Wild and increasing pressure on Minnesota’s Jesper Wallstedt . While the third period started quietly, the Avalanche’s belief never wavered — a mindset MacKinnon described as “looking for a spark,” and once Kelly scored, that spark ignited a full-scale comeback .