Avalanche Extend Winning Streak to Nine with Shutout Over Blackhawks
The Colorado Avalanche secured a narrow 1-0 victory against the Chicago Blackhawks on Sunday night, marking the team’s ninth consecutive win. Scott Wedgewood delivered an impressive performance, making 22 saves to achieve his first career shutout. The Avalanche’s winning streak is their longest since they won nine games in a row from March 4 to March 24, 2024.
This victory brings Colorado’s record to 16-1-5, with the team now earning points in 13 straight games, recording an impressive 11-0-2 since their only regulation loss to the Boston Bruins on October 25, 2023. In contrast, the Blackhawks have now lost three consecutive games, following a six-game point streak that included five wins and one overtime loss.
Wedgewood’s achievement adds to the Avalanche’s recent success, having also secured a 3-0 win against the Nashville Predators the previous night, with Mackenzie Blackwood making 35 saves. Wedgewood, who has primarily served as a backup in his career, is currently leading the NHL with 13 wins and boasts a league-best 2.23 goals-against average.
Key Moments from the Game
The first period saw the Blackhawks dominate, outshooting Colorado 11-2 and testing Wedgewood with several close chances. One of his standout saves came when he stopped a powerful one-timer from Ryan Green, who found himself alone in front of the net with just under six minutes remaining in the period.
The momentum shifted in the second period, as the Avalanche retaliated and outshot the Blackhawks 19-1. With just 1:39 left in the second, Cale Makar broke the deadlock, scoring on a rebound from the left circle. The goal was set up by rookie Tristen Nielsen, who intercepted a clearing pass from Blackhawks’ goalie Spencer Knight and fired a shot from the right circle before Makar capitalized.
As the third period progressed, the Blackhawks increased their pressure, pushing for an equalizer. Wedgewood remained steadfast, making crucial saves, including a remarkable stop on Frank Nazar with under a minute left as Knight was pulled for an extra attacker.
With this victory, the Avalanche continue to assert their dominance in the league, demonstrating resilience and skill as they look to maintain their winning streak in the coming games.
