Avalanche Shut Down Stars to Inch Closer to West's Top Seed

Colorado's stifling defense limits Dallas to just 17 shots in 2-0 victory.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 10:35pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Colorado Avalanche delivered a dominant defensive performance, limiting the Dallas Stars to only 17 shots on goal in a 2-0 shutout victory on Saturday night. The win puts the Avalanche on the brink of clinching the top seed in the Western Conference, needing just two more points to secure the top spot.

Why it matters

The Avalanche's ability to bounce back with a stifling defensive effort after a recent lopsided loss shows their resilience and adaptability as they gear up for the playoffs. Securing the West's top seed would give Colorado home-ice advantage throughout the postseason.

The details

Just days after giving up 8 goals to the NHL's worst team, the Avalanche locked down defensively against the Stars. Colorado allowed only 17 shots on goal, with goaltender Scott Wedgewood recording his third shutout of the season. The Avalanche got goals from Martin Necas and Nathan MacKinnon to earn the victory.

  • The Avalanche can clinch the top seed in the Western Conference on Sunday night when they host the St. Louis Blues.
  • Brent Burns played in his 1,000th consecutive NHL game on Saturday, an incredible feat of durability.

The players

Scott Wedgewood

The Avalanche goaltender stopped all 17 shots he faced to record his third shutout of the season.

Martin Necas

Scored the opening goal for the Avalanche, capitalizing on a pass from Artturi Lehkonen.

Nathan MacKinnon

Scored the Avalanche's second goal, his 51st of the season, to seal the victory.

Brent Burns

The veteran defenseman played in his 1,000th consecutive NHL game, an incredible accomplishment.

Jared Bednar

The Avalanche head coach was furious after the team's previous loss, but his players responded with a dominant defensive effort.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Avalanche can clinch the top seed in the Western Conference on Sunday night when they host the St. Louis Blues.

The takeaway

The Avalanche's ability to rebound with a dominant defensive performance after a recent lopsided loss demonstrates their resilience and adaptability as they gear up for the playoffs. Securing the West's top seed would give Colorado a significant advantage in their quest for the Stanley Cup.