Avalanche Set Playoff Standard Early with Sweep and Speed
Written By Gina Anton
The Colorado Avalanche have wasted no time establishing themselves as a force in the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs, becoming the first team to advance to the second round. Their quick work in the opening series comes on the heels of a dominant regular season that earned them the Presidents' Trophy, a combination that sends a clear message to the rest of the league.
Colorado’s early playoff success speaks first to their consistency. Teams that finish atop the standings don’t always carry that dominance into the postseason, where the game tightens and mistakes are magnified. The Avalanche, however, have looked just as sharp, if not sharper, than they did during the regular season. Their ability to transition seamlessly into playoff intensity suggests a team that is not only talented, but mentally prepared.
Colorado swept their first-round series with a 4–0 record, outscoring the Los Angeles Kings by a combined 13–5 margin, showing both offensive firepower and defensive control. Nathan MacKinnon, the league’s regular-season goal leader, broke out in the clinching game with two goals and an assist, while contributions came from across the lineup.
In net, Scott Wedgewood has been a major difference-maker. He posted a .950 save percentage and 1.21 goals-against average through the first round, putting him among the top-performing goaltenders in the playoffs so far. His ability to shut down high-danger chances has given Colorado a reliable backbone behind their aggressive style.
It also highlights their efficiency. By dispatching their opponent in the minimum number of games, Colorado has given itself a crucial advantage: rest. In a grueling playoff format, fewer games can make a significant difference as the rounds progress.
“When you’re hoping for obviously a deep and long run, the least amount of games you can play are definitely going to be a benefit,” Avalanche goaltender Scott Wedgewood said. “Home ice helps. You’re going to be sleeping in your bed for a couple extra nights. … Little extra time to prepare and heal up is obviously going to pay off, and obviously get ready for whoever comes next.”
That perspective reflects a team thinking beyond just one series. The Avalanche are managing the bigger picture, balancing performance with recovery, urgency with discipline. It’s a hallmark of experienced contenders who understand what it takes to go deep.
Their dominance isn’t just strategic, it’s physical, too. Defenseman Cale Makar has recorded the fastest skating speed of the playoffs so far, reaching 23.92 mph, the highest of any player this postseason. That elite speed from the blue line allows Colorado to transition instantly from defense to offense, creating constant pressure and forcing opponents into mistakes.
Depth is another defining trait. Colorado hasn’t relied on a single line or star to carry them; instead, they’ve rolled out a complete lineup capable of scoring, defending, and controlling the pace of play. That balance makes them especially dangerous, as opponents can’t key in on just one threat.
Still, the road ahead won’t get easier. Each round brings stronger competition and new challenges. But by pairing a Presidents’ Trophy season with a decisive first-round sweep, and backing it up with elite stats on both ends of the ice, the Avalanche have put themselves in an ideal position: rested, confident, and setting the standard.
If their start is any indication, Colorado isn’t just aiming for a deep run, they’re built for it.
