Avalanche Defeat Stars 2-0 to Extend Central Division Lead

Colorado's victory over Dallas widens their advantage atop the Central Division standings.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 5:43am

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The Colorado Avalanche defeated the Dallas Stars 2-0 in a key Central Division matchup. Martin Necas broke the scoreless tie in the third period, and the Avalanche added an empty-net goal late to secure the victory. The win extends Colorado's lead atop the Central Division standings.

Why it matters

The Avalanche and Stars are two of the top teams in the Central Division, so this game had major implications for the division race. Colorado's win gives them more breathing room at the top of the standings as they look to clinch a playoff spot.

The details

Martin Necas scored the game-winning goal for the Avalanche midway through the third period to break the scoreless tie. Colorado then added an empty-net goal late in the game to seal the 2-0 victory over their division rival Stars.

  • The game was played on April 5, 2026.

The players

Martin Necas

A forward for the Colorado Avalanche who scored the game-winning goal in the third period.

Colorado Avalanche

A professional ice hockey team based in Denver, Colorado that plays in the Central Division of the National Hockey League.

Dallas Stars

A professional ice hockey team based in Dallas, Texas that plays in the Central Division of the National Hockey League.

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What’s next

The Avalanche and Stars will meet again later in the season as they continue their battle for the Central Division title and a top playoff seed.

The takeaway

Colorado's victory over their division rival Dallas extends their lead atop the Central Division standings, putting them in a strong position to clinch a playoff spot as the season winds down.