Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen stood out in the game, demonstrating their skills and physical strength on the ice. However, despite their efforts, the Avalanche lost, and critics may blame MacKinnon’s track record in Game 7s rather than acknowledge his outstanding performance. The article argues that Colorado fought relentlessly throughout the series, even when facing injuries and setbacks, and should not be faulted for a lack of effort.
Game 7 between the Avs and Kraken
Unfortunately, bad luck and questionable decisions negatively impacted the team’s chances of winning. Injuries to key players, such as Cale Makar, Gabe Landeskog, Darren Helm, and Andrew Cogliano, severely affected the team’s depth and balance. Moreover, dangerous hits from opposing players, such as Will Borgen’s cross-check to Helm’s neck and Jordan Eberle’s boarding of Cogliano, did not receive sufficient penalties, affecting the Avs’ morale and momentum. In conclusion, the article highlights the Avs’ determination and resilience despite facing significant challenges, which should be recognized, even in their loss.
Studs: Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen
Nathan MacKinnon’s outstanding performance in Game 7 is worthy of recognition. Despite losing another Game 7, MacKinnon’s efforts and commitment to winning were apparent. He played an incredible game from start to finish, fighting for his team’s success and pushing himself to the limit. MacKinnon’s powerful play was evident in his shifts, which were different and more intense than his previous games. Unfortunately, his two goals were taken away, one due to an offside call and another given to Rantanen. Critics may blame MacKinnon for his team’s loss, but they should recognize his incredible effort and impact on the ice.
Similarly, Mikko Rantanen demonstrated his skill and physical strength in Game 7. With MacKinnon, Rantanen was a force to be reckoned with, providing the Avalanche with a Voltron-like quality. Although the duo was dominant, they could not solve Philipp Grubauer, Seattle’s goalie. Despite their defeat, Rantanen and MacKinnon were exceptional players, nearly beating the Kraken in Games 6 and 7.
The Champion Spirit
The Avalanche demonstrated their fighting spirit throughout the series, even when facing non-stop adversity. After losing Game 5, the Avs bounced back with dominant possession hockey in the next two games. The players showed determination, fighting the good fight and breaking even in possession, despite getting rocked in previous games.
Alex Newhook had a strong performance in Game 7, although he did not score. He and the other players gave their all, even when facing another hilarious series of events breaking against them. Their resilience and determination were genuinely Sisyphusian, which is a testament to their character.
Duds: Any concept of a lucky break
The article argues that the random events that occurred during the series were heavily tilted against Colorado. The injury to key players, such as Cale Makar, Gabe Landeskog, Darren Helm, and Andrew Cogliano, severely affected the team’s depth and balance.
Losing Helm and Cogliano to dangerous hits from opposing players, which did not receive meaningful discipline, significantly impacted the team’s morale and momentum. The news that Gabe Landeskog would be shut down for the postseason before the series began was an emotional blow to the team. Val Nichushkin’s absence for personal reasons further reduced the team’s balance in the offense.
