Story perspectives

Avalanche Leverage High-Altitude Edge in Playoff Opener

5/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Colorado Avalanche opened a third-round series against the Las Vegas Golden Knights at Ball Arena’s 5,280-foot altitude, which lowers oxygen to 17 percent.
The reduced oxygen raises VO2 max while NHL data show visitors lose 5-10 percent in the first ten minutes, dropping below 90 percent SpO2.
Senior physiologist Randy Wilber calls the altitude a “fifth gear,” with the Avalanche entering the playoffs as the league’s best-record team and Stanley Cup favorite.

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Story summary

The Colorado Avalanche opened a third-round series against the Las Vegas Golden Knights at Ball Arena’s 5,280-foot altitude, which lowers oxygen to 17 percent.
The reduced oxygen raises VO2 max while NHL data show visitors lose 5-10 percent in the first ten minutes, dropping below 90 percent SpO2.
Senior physiologist Randy Wilber calls the altitude a “fifth gear,” with the Avalanche entering the playoffs as the league’s best-record team and Stanley Cup favorite.