URGENT UPDATE: The Colorado Avalanche has suffered a crushing defeat against the Tampa Bay Lightning, losing 4-2 at Benchmark International Arena in Tampa, Florida. This marks the Avalanche’s second consecutive loss in regulation, a troubling first for the season.
Brandon Hagel scored the decisive goal for Tampa Bay with a powerful one-timer at 8:31 in the third period, regaining the lead and sealing Colorado’s fate. Anthony Cirelli added an empty-net goal with just 1:25 left on the clock, further deepening the Avs’ woes.
Earlier this week, Colorado fell 2-1 to the two-time defending champion Florida Panthers, making the Sunshine State road trip a tough challenge. Despite a brief comeback victory against the Carolina Hurricanes, the Avalanche are now facing significant adversity with key players sidelined.
The Avalanche (31-4-7) struggled against the Lightning, showing signs of fatigue while competing for the third time in four nights against some of the NHL’s top teams. Although the team demonstrated hard work and effort, their execution faltered at crucial moments.
Colorado fell behind late in the first period but rallied in the second. The fourth line delivered a strong performance, with Parker Kelly scoring the first goal at 3:22, assisted by Zakhar Bardakov, who made his first point in an Avalanche uniform.
Brock Nelson showcased his prowess, scoring once again after being named to the U.S. Olympic team. His goal in the second period, assisted by Cale Makar, came during a penalty kill and demonstrated the Avs’ offensive potential.
“We need to regroup and focus on the upcoming homestand,” said head coach Jared Bednar, acknowledging the challenges faced in recent games.
For the second consecutive period, the Lightning struck with a late goal, this time from Yanni Gourde, who found Zemgus Girgensons for a quick tap-in with 2:38 remaining in the second frame. Jake Guentzel opened the scoring for Tampa Bay, netting a goal with just 12 seconds left in the first period.
The Avalanche played without captain Gabe Landeskog and defenseman Devon Toews, both out due to upper-body injuries and expected to miss significant time. Goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood also remained sidelined for the entire road trip, leaving Scott Wedgewood to shoulder the burden in net.
As the Avalanche return home, they will need to find their rhythm quickly in order to bounce back from this challenging stretch of games. Fans will be watching closely as the team seeks to recover and regain its dominant form.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Avalanche as they prepare for their upcoming homestand. The latest developments are crucial for the team’s playoff aspirations.
