Full Breakdown
Colorado Avalanche Clinch Presidents' Trophy with Victory Over Calgary Flames
4/10/2026, 7:34:34 PM
Key Victory Secures Top Seed
The Colorado Avalanche secured the Presidents' Trophy for the 2025-26 NHL season after defeating the Calgary Flames 3-1 on April 9, 2026. This victory marked the fourth time the Avalanche have claimed the award, which is given to the team with the best regular-season record. With this win, Colorado improved its record to 52-16-10, accumulating 114 points, and ensured home-ice advantage throughout the playoffs.
Game Highlights
In the match against the Flames, Gabriel Landeskog opened the scoring with a power-play goal, followed by Martin Necas extending the lead to 2-0. The Flames managed to score late in the game, but a potential equalizer was disallowed due to an offside call. Nathan MacKinnon sealed the game with an empty-net goal, marking his career-high 52nd goal of the season. Mackenzie Blackwood, the Avalanche's goaltender, made 28 saves, contributing significantly to the team's success.
Context of the Season
The Avalanche's journey to clinching the Presidents' Trophy was characterized by a strong start to the season, where they held a remarkable 30-2-7 record by New Year's Day. Despite facing challenges, including injuries to key players like Nazem Kadri and Cale Makar, the team maintained a commanding lead in the Central Division and Western Conference. The Avalanche's performance this season has positioned them as one of the most offensively potent teams in the league, with MacKinnon leading in goals and points.
Official Statements & Responses
Head coach Jared Bednar emphasized the importance of the Presidents' Trophy, stating, “It’s important if you get to where you want to go, you might as well try and get your home ice.” He also noted the need for consistency as the team approaches the playoffs, highlighting the balance between celebrating their achievements and maintaining focus on future goals.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the Avalanche's success, some analysts have pointed out the historical "curse" of the Presidents' Trophy, where many winners have struggled in the playoffs. The last team to win both the Presidents' Trophy and the Stanley Cup was the 2012-13 Chicago Blackhawks. This concern looms over the Avalanche as they prepare for their postseason run.
What's Next
With the regular season nearing its conclusion, the Avalanche will focus on maintaining player health and performance as they prepare for the playoffs. They have four games remaining, including a matchup against the Flames in Calgary on April 14. The team aims to build on their successful season and pursue another Stanley Cup title, which would further solidify their legacy in the league.
Verbatim Quotes
“Quote That Left a Mark "[Our] goals for us started with winning the division, the conference [and we] still need another win to get first overall [in the NHL], and we'd be crazy not to chase that at this point.” — Jared Bednar, Head Coach
“We're not throwing parades or that kind of stuff yet, but we're happy with where we're at.” — Jared Bednar, Head Coach
“It's a great group, a hungry group,” — Scott Wedgewood, Goaltender
“Takeaways Colorado has officially clinched the Presidents’ Trophy with their win over Calgary tonight and will have home-ice advantage throughout the playoffs.” — Mile High Hockey Report
The Avalanche's achievement in securing the Presidents' Trophy sets the stage for an exciting playoff season, as they aim to capture their second Stanley Cup in five years.
