Colorado Avalanche defeat St. Louis Blues, clinch Central Division

Valeri Nichushkin scores twice as Avalanche secure top seed in Western Conference

Apr. 8, 2026 at 5:06pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey game between the Colorado Avalanche and St. Louis Blues, with the players and action broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color.

The Avalanche's decisive victory over the Blues showcases the team's dominance in the Western Conference.St. Louis Today

The Colorado Avalanche defeated the St. Louis Blues 3-1 on Tuesday night, with Valeri Nichushkin scoring two goals to lead the Avalanche to victory. The win clinched the Central Division title and the top seed in the Western Conference for Colorado.

Why it matters

The Avalanche's win over the Blues solidifies their position as one of the top teams in the Western Conference, while the loss is a setback for the Blues as they look to secure a playoff spot.

The details

Valeri Nichushkin scored two goals to lead the Colorado Avalanche to a 3-1 victory over the St. Louis Blues on Tuesday night. The win clinched the Central Division title and the top seed in the Western Conference for the Avalanche.

The game took place on Tuesday, April 8, 2026.
The Blues will host the Winnipeg Jets on Thursday, April 10, 2026.

The players

Valeri Nichushkin

A forward for the Colorado Avalanche who scored two goals in the game.