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Vegas Takes 3-0 Lead, Avs’ MacKinnon Injured

5/26/2026

23 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Colorado lost Game 3 5-3, giving Vegas a 3-0 series lead.
Nathan MacKinnon injured his right knee at 12:15 of the second period, played four shifts in the third, and leads Colorado with seven goals and 15 points.
Defenseman Cale Makar returned for Game 3 but remained limited by an upper-body injury.
Coach Jared Bednar said the Avalanche must play with urgency, pride and character to win Game 4.

History

Historical Context

After the Rangers captured the Stanley Cup in 1994, ending a 54-year drought with a 112-point season, injuries to key players like Mark Messier and Mike Richter shaped their comeback. The 2024 Colorado Avalanche now confront a similar playoff challenge in the first round, underscoring how health can swing a series.

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Story summary

Colorado lost Game 3 5-3, giving Vegas a 3-0 series lead.
Nathan MacKinnon injured his right knee at 12:15 of the second period, played four shifts in the third, and leads Colorado with seven goals and 15 points.
Defenseman Cale Makar returned for Game 3 but remained limited by an upper-body injury.
Coach Jared Bednar said the Avalanche must play with urgency, pride and character to win Game 4.

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