Colorado Avalanche vs Dallas Stars Picks and Predictions May 17th 2024

Must-Win Game 6: Avalanche’s Fight to Stay Alive Against Star

The Colorado Avalanche are fighting tooth and nail to stay alive in their Western Conference semifinal series against the Dallas Stars. After falling behind 3-1, they’re now eyeing a historic comeback. With Game 6 set in Denver, this match is a do-or-die for the Avalanche, who need to ride their recent wave of momentum to keep their season alive.

Avalanche’s Historic Challenge

Facing the 3-1 Deficit

Historically, the Avalanche have never bounced back from a 3-1 series deficit. This uphill battle is daunting, but their Game 5 performance has given them a glimmer of hope. Pulling off this comeback would be a huge milestone for the franchise.

Game 5: A Critical Victory

The Avalanche’s 5-3 win in Game 5 was a game-changer. It was the first time in the series that Colorado led in regulation, highlighting their resilience when it mattered most.

Key Factors in Game 6

Home-Ice Advantage

Playing Game 6 at home in Denver is a big plus for the Avalanche. The home crowd’s energy can pump up the team, possibly tipping the scales in their favor.
Dallas Stars’ Road Dominance

Despite the Avalanche’s home-ice advantage, the Stars have been stellar on the road this postseason. This makes the task tougher for Colorado, who will need to crack Dallas’ strong away game.

Colorado’s Offensive Awakening

Impact of Game 5

Colorado’s offense, which had been pretty quiet earlier in the series, woke up big time in Game 5. Keeping this offensive momentum going is key for their chances in Game 6. They need to keep the pressure on and seize every scoring opportunity.

Challenges Against Oettinger

Dallas goaltender Jake Oettinger has been a wall in previous games in Denver, allowing just one goal per game. But the Avalanche managed to find gaps in his defense in Game 5. They’ll need to repeat this feat to keep their playoff hopes alive.

Dallas Stars: Resilience and Injuries

Oettinger’s Mental Toughness

Despite the Game 5 loss, Jake Oettinger’s mental toughness is a major asset for the Stars. His ability to bounce back under pressure will be crucial as Dallas looks to close out the series.

Roope Hintz’s Absence

Dallas has felt the impact of losing their first-line center, Roope Hintz, to an upper-body injury. His ability to slow down Colorado’s top line has been missed. His status is day-to-day, and his return could shift the dynamics of Game 6.

Chris Tanev’s Grit

Dallas defenseman Chris Tanev showed serious toughness by returning to the ice after having a tooth pulled during Game 5. This kind of grit embodies the Stars’ approach and could be pivotal in their performance.

Avalanche’s Defensive and Offensive Adjustments

Return of Devon Toews

Defenseman Devon Toews made a big impact in Game 5 with his return to the lineup. His presence on the blue line will be vital in Game 6 as the Avalanche aim to stifle Dallas’ offense.

Injury Concerns

Forward Yakov Trenin’s status is up in the air after he left Game 5 with an upper-body injury. His condition will be closely watched, as his availability could influence Colorado’s game plan.

Mentality and Urgency

Playing Desperate Hockey

Defenseman Cale Makar talked about the need for “desperate hockey.” This was evident in Game 5, where the Avalanche showed a high level of urgency and overcame deficits. Keeping this mindset is crucial for their success in Game 6.

Focus and Determination

Every player needs to be at their best, focusing on every opportunity and fighting for every chance. This level of determination is essential to extend the series and keep their playoff dreams alive.