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The Colorado Avalanche erupted for four goals in the third period to secure a 5-2 victory over the New Jersey Devils in Denver, bouncing back from a disappointing 6-2 defeat against the Nashville Predators. Five different skaters found the net for Colorado as the team delivered a strong offensive response.
Third-Period Surge Drives Colorado
After entering the final period tied, Colorado successfully killed off a New Jersey 5-on-3 power play before taking control of the matchup. Nazem Kadri put the Avalanche ahead 2:45 into the third period by converting a rebound off a shot by Nicolas Roy. Just 62 seconds later, Parker Kelly extended the lead to 3-1.
Colorado continued its offensive pressure as Nathan MacKinnon and Jaden Schwartz scored goals just 30 seconds apart, turning a tight contest into a comfortable lead. Connor Brown scored twice for New Jersey, while goaltender Jake Allen stopped 36 shots in the loss. Avalanche goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood recorded 15 saves to help lock down the victory.
Bednar Highlights Team Growth and Simplicity
Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar expressed satisfaction with his squad’s execution, particularly noting the structure in their play. Bednar had previously cited Bill Belichick’s philosophy regarding self-motivated players, emphasizing that his experienced roster understands what is required to play effective hockey without needing constant direction.
“I think the growth for me was there was a simplicity to our offense,” Bednar said. “It was highly effective, and it’s not just because it was the Devils, but in the way they play, I think it’s repeatable, regardless of your opponent.”
Bednar added that the performance represented a full 60-minute effort, stating, “I think it’s definitely a complete game from us.” Gabriel Landeskog had earlier tied the game for Colorado with a second-period power-play goal during a stretch that Bednar described as his favorite offensive period of the season despite the team only scoring once.
Kelly Points to Line Execution and Momentum
Kelly, who recorded a goal and an assist in the contest, highlighted the cohesive play across his unit. “It takes three guys on the line and two D-men to make things work,” Kelly said. “And I thought when we were out there, it was a great five-man unit.”
The win also provided a sense of payback for Colorado, which had lost to New Jersey on Oct. 20 while playing on the second night of a back-to-back set. This time, the Devils were the team playing on consecutive nights.
“They took advantage of us on a back-to-back, so it was nice to, you know, give them the favor back and take advantage of them when they’re on a back-to-back, right?” Kelly said. He noted that the team remained patient before the scoring burst, adding, “Everyone can leave the rink today feeling good about their game.”
