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Avalanche Face Kings in 2026 Playoffs: High Stakes Ahead

4/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Colorado Avalanche will face the Los Angeles Kings in the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs, starting Sunday at 1 p.m. MT.
The Avalanche earned the Presidents’ Trophy with 121 points and hold home-ice.
The Kings, led by new head coach D.J. Smith, have fewer than 40 wins.
This is Kings' first playoff meeting in 24 years, and a win could end Anze Kopitar of the Los Angeles Kings' 20-year career.

History

Historical Context

The Pittsburgh Penguins won their first Stanley Cup in 1991, led by Mario Lemieux and coach Scotty Bowman. In 1992, they secured their second consecutive title by sweeping the Chicago Blackhawks in the finals. This victory marked a significant moment in NHL history, as it showcased the Penguins' dominance and set the stage for future playoff rivalries, including the current matchup between the Colorado Avalanche and Los Angeles Kings.

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Story summary

The Colorado Avalanche will face the Los Angeles Kings in the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs, starting Sunday at 1 p.m. MT.
The Avalanche earned the Presidents’ Trophy with 121 points and hold home-ice.
The Kings, led by new head coach D.J. Smith, have fewer than 40 wins.
This is Kings' first playoff meeting in 24 years, and a win could end Anze Kopitar of the Los Angeles Kings' 20-year career.

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