When the Colorado Avalanche and Winnipeg Jets matched up in the first round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, most thought it would be a long series. That was not the case, and the Avalanche wrapped things up in five games on Tuesday night.
After falling behind 1-0 in the series, Colorado flipped a switch and threw a barrage of shots and scoring chances at Vezina Trophy finalist Connor Hellebuyck over the next four games. Hellebuyck didn't hold up well, and the Avalanche were able to light up the scoreboard all series.
Including their 7-6 loss in Game 1, the Avalanche scored 24 goals on Hellebuyck in five games. They scored at least five goals in every single game. It was an offensive barrage that culminated with a 6-3 win in Game 5 to clinch the series. Nathan MacKinnon was his usually brilliant self, but he had plenty of help. Valeri Nichushkin was red hot with seven goals, and Arturri Lehkonen added five of his own.
Now, the Avalanche will await the winner of the series between the Dallas Stars and Vegas Golden Knights.
The results from the entire series can be found below.
Full Jets vs. Avalanche results
Game 1: | Jets 7, Avalanche 6 | Recap
Game 2: | Avalanche 5, Jets 2 | Recap
Game 3: | Avalanche 6, Jets 2 | Recap
Game 4: | Avalanche 5, Jets 1 | Recap
Game 5: | Avalanche 6, Jets 3 | Recap
*if necessary