Avalanche Outlast Golden Knights in Overtime Thriller, 6-5

In a game filled with dramatic swings, the Colorado Avalanche edged out the Vegas Golden Knights 6-5 in overtime on December 27, 2025. Nathan MacKinnon sealed the victory for the Avalanche with an impressive goal in the extra frame, capping off a wild contest that saw multiple lead changes and a fierce comeback from Colorado.

Big Picture

Both teams came into the game looking to make a statement, and they certainly delivered an entertaining show. The Golden Knights struck first, taking an early lead, but the Avalanche responded fiercely. This matchup showcased the resilience of both teams, with the Avalanche demonstrating their tenacity by rallying from two goals down late in regulation to force overtime. Ultimately, it was Colorado's ability to capitalize on critical moments that led them to victory.

Turning Point

The turning point came in the final minutes of the third period. With the Golden Knights up 5-4, the Avalanche pulled the equalizer with just under two minutes to play. Artturi Lehkonen found the back of the net, assisted by Nathan MacKinnon and Brock Nelson, which shifted the momentum firmly in Colorado’s favor. This late goal not only tied the game but also set the stage for a tense overtime period, where MacKinnon would later become the hero.

Standout Performances

Nathan MacKinnon was undoubtedly the standout player of the night. Not only did he assist on Lehkonen's game-tying goal, but he also scored the decisive goal in overtime, showcasing his ability to shine in crucial moments. Martin Necas also had a significant impact, scoring twice during the third period to help his team claw back into the game.

For the Golden Knights, Alexander Holtz and Ivan Barbashev led the charge offensively. Holtz opened the scoring, while Barbashev added another to put Vegas up 2-0 early in the second period. However, despite their strong efforts, the Golden Knights couldn’t maintain their lead amid Colorado's relentless pressure.

What It Means

This win is a crucial one for the Avalanche as they continue to build momentum in the season. Capturing points in overtime can be vital for playoff positioning and team morale. Conversely, the Golden Knights will need to reflect on their late-game management as they were unable to protect a lead in the final moments of regulation. With the playoff race heating up, both teams will look to learn from this high-stakes encounter. The Avalanche established themselves as a team that can fight back under pressure, while the Golden Knights will need to tighten up defensively moving forward.