| Scoring | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | F |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LAK | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| COL | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
Avalanche, First Round Game 1, beat Kings 2–1 at Ball Arena on April 19, 2026.
The Colorado Avalanche emerged victorious against the Los Angeles Kings with a score of 2-1 in Game 1 of the First Round of the playoffs. This win gives the Avalanche an early lead in the best-of-7 series, putting pressure on the Kings as they seek to bounce back in the subsequent games.
The turning point in tonight's game came during the second and early third periods. Artturi Lehkonen opened the scoring for the Avalanche at 15:29 in the second period, assisted by Nathan MacKinnon. This goal not only put Colorado ahead but also shifted momentum firmly in their favor. Just a few minutes into the third period, Logan O'Connor extended the Avalanche's lead to 2-0 at 5:50, assisted by Jack Drury.
The Kings managed to fight back late in the game with a goal from Artemi Panarin at 17:38 in the third period, which narrowed the gap to 2-1. Despite their best efforts to equalize, the Kings couldn't find the net again, highlighting the significance of the Avalanche's earlier goals.
For the Avalanche, Artturi Lehkonen was pivotal, scoring the first goal and setting the tone for his team. Nathan MacKinnon’s assist on that goal showcased his playmaking ability, while Logan O'Connor contributed crucially with his goal, giving the Avalanche a solid two-goal lead.
On the Kings' side, Artemi Panarin stood out by finally breaking through for a late goal, assisted by Alex Laferriere and Brandt Clarke, but his efforts couldn't shift the game's outcome in their favor.
Both teams had physical battles on the ice, with the Kings registering 49 hits compared to the Avalanche's 35, showing their determination to wear down their opponents. However, the Avalanche's strong defensive play, evidenced by their 21 blocked shots, played a significant role in securing the win.
The Avalanche will look to build on their early series lead as they prepare for Game 2 against the Kings. For Los Angeles, adjustments are needed to overcome this setback and even the series. With the pressure on, they must rally and respond effectively to avoid falling into a deeper hole in the playoffs.
Avalanche won 2–1.
The final score was Kings 1, Avalanche 2.
Artemi Panarin.
Artturi Lehkonen, Logan O'Connor.
Anton Forsberg made 30 saves on 32 shots (.938 save percentage).
Scott Wedgewood made 24 saves on 25 shots (.960 save percentage).
At Ball Arena in Denver, the Avalanche home rink.
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