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Avalanche May Rest MacKinnon as Playoffs Approach

2/25/2026

Summary

Avalanche Weigh Resting MacKinnon

The Colorado Avalanche, leading the National Hockey League (NHL) with 83 points, may rest Nathan MacKinnon, Colorado Avalanche forward, if they secure a top playoff seed.
Historically, teams with the most regular-season points often struggle in the playoffs.
MacKinnon recently missed a crucial goal in the Olympic final.
The Avalanche face the Utah Mammoth tonight and have won two of three prior meetings.

Summary

Avalanche Trade Girard

The Colorado Avalanche traded defenseman Samuel Girard to the Pittsburgh Penguins for defenseman Brett Kulak and a 2028 second-round pick.
Girard has 12 points this season.
He helped lead the Avalanche to the 2022 Stanley Cup.
Avalanche coach Jared Bednar expressed sadness over Girard's departure and noted potential benefits from Kulak.
Kulak brings playoff experience and versatility, enabling strategic playoff matchups and improving defensive options.

History

Historical Context

The New York Rangers ended a 54-year championship drought by winning the Stanley Cup in 1994, defeating the Vancouver Canucks in a dramatic Game 7. This season marked a shift in NHL playoff structure, with teams competing in best-of-seven series. The Colorado Avalanche's recent trades, including Samuel Girard for Brett Kulak, reflect their commitment to playoff success in a highly competitive league.

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Avalanche Weigh Resting MacKinnon

The Colorado Avalanche, leading the National Hockey League (NHL) with 83 points, may rest Nathan MacKinnon, Colorado Avalanche forward, if they secure a top playoff seed.
Historically, teams with the most regular-season points often struggle in the playoffs.
MacKinnon recently missed a crucial goal in the Olympic final.
The Avalanche face the Utah Mammoth tonight and have won two of three prior meetings.

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