A star-studded showdown between the Colorado Avalanche and Edmonton Oilers saw Colorado’s best players shine brighter as the Avalanche edged past the Oilers with a thrilling 5-4 victory on Friday night, February 7, 2025, in Edmonton. Martin Necas netted the decisive goal late in the third period, ensuring Colorado secured their fourth win out of their last five games.
Nathan MacKinnon led the way with one goal and three assists, showcasing his speed and playmaking abilities throughout the match. Cale Makar contributed significantly with two goals and one assist, underpinning his position as one of the most talented defensemen in the league. Artturi Lehkonen also found the net for the Avalanche, rounding out their scoring alongside Necas.
For the Oilers, Leon Draisaitl and Corey Perry were the standout players, each grabbing two goals. Their efforts, unfortunately, could not prevent Edmonton from falling short and ending their two-game winning streak. Mackenzie Blackwood made 23 saves for the Avalanche, and Calvin Pickard stepped up with 17 saves after replacing Stuart Skinner midway through the game.
The first period was nothing short of exhilarating, witnessing four goals within just two minutes and 34 seconds. The teams traded goals rapidly, with the Avalanche initially taking the lead before the Oilers struck back. Lehkonen scored to give Colorado the advantage again just before the period ended, making it 3-2.
Makar added to his tally with a shorthanded goal at 6:39 of the second period, pushing the Avalanche to a promising 4-2 lead. Yet the Oilers responded with resilience; Perry scored on the power play shortly after and then Draisaitl tied the game with just four minutes left on the clock.
Despite the wild shifts, the Avalanche regained control late in the game. With 4:22 remaining, after Blackwood stopped MacKinnon’s initial attempt, he quickly gathered the rebound and set up Necas perfectly. Necas fired home his 20th goal of the season, effectively sealing the victory for Colorado.
This match was particularly notable as it served as the final game for both teams before the 4 Nations Face-Off break. The stakes were high, with players like Draisaitl showing the pressure of the moment. "Just not sharp enough defensively, and obviously, a couple of mistakes ended up in the back of our net," said Draisaitl following the match.
The victory bolstered the Avalanche's effort to climb the standings as they improved their overall record to 33-22-2. The Oilers, now standing at 34-17-4, are facing pressure to bounce back from this defeat.
Looking forward, both teams will have time to regroup and strategize during the break. The Avalanche will face the Nashville Predators upon their return on February 22, aiming to keep their momentum going. Meanwhile, the Oilers will travel to Philadelphia for their matchup on the same day.
This thrilling encounter was emblematic of the talent within the league, underlining the importance of clutch plays and strategic execution. With the playoff race around the corner, both teams will need to refine their game and minimize mistakes to remain competitive.