Avalanche Face Blue Jackets Without Key Players

On Thursday evening, April 3, 2025, the Colorado Avalanche faced off against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio, in a highly anticipated matchup. The Avalanche, holding a record of 46-26-4 and 96 points, were looking to continue their momentum after a thrilling 3-2 shootout victory over the Chicago Blackhawks the night before. However, they faced significant challenges as two key players, Jonathan Drouin and Martin Necas, were sidelined due to injuries sustained in the previous game.

Jonathan Drouin suffered a lower-body injury after being hit against the boards, while Martin Necas, who had scored the game-tying goal with just 10 seconds left in regulation, sustained a head or neck injury during a collision in the crease. Drouin was visibly in pain as he hobbled back to the bench and did not return for the remainder of the game. Although Necas played through the injury, it was uncertain if he would sit out for precautionary reasons against the Blue Jackets.

In their absence, Miles Wood and Jimmy Vesey stepped into the lineup to fill the gaps left by Drouin and Necas. Avalanche coach Jared Bednar confirmed that Mackenzie Blackwood would be starting in goal, replacing the scratched Kevin Mandolese. Additionally, Samuel Girard remained out after missing the previous game.

The Blue Jackets, coming off a commanding 8-4 win against the Nashville Predators, were eager to capitalize on the Avalanche's injury woes. Columbus held a record of 34-30-9 with 77 points, and they were looking to improve their playoff positioning. This matchup was particularly crucial as it was the second and final meeting between these two teams, with the Blue Jackets having previously defeated the Avalanche 6-4 in their first encounter on October 12, 2024.

As the game commenced, the atmosphere at Nationwide Arena was electric, especially since it was Military Appreciation Night, honoring those who have served the country. Fans were treated to a vibrant display of support for the troops, and the energy in the arena was palpable.

In the first period, the Blue Jackets struck first as Sean Monahan found the back of the net, giving Columbus an early lead. Monahan, who had missed over two months with an injury, had been on fire since his return to the lineup on March 24, racking up seven points in four games. His goal against the Avalanche showcased his sharpness and determination to make an impact.

On the other side, Nathan MacKinnon, the Avalanche's star forward and a contender for the NHL scoring title, was looking to extend his point streak to six games. MacKinnon entered the game with an impressive 30 goals and 80 assists for a total of 110 points, making him a player to watch throughout the night. In the first meeting between these teams, MacKinnon had also contributed with a goal and an assist, proving to be a pivotal player in their previous loss.

As the game progressed, both teams exchanged several scoring chances, but solid goaltending from Elvis Merzlikins kept the Avalanche at bay. The Blue Jackets' defense, led by Zach Werenski and Denton Mateychuk, worked tirelessly to limit Colorado's offensive opportunities, knowing that a win could bolster their playoff hopes.

Despite the Avalanche's strong offensive statistics—averaging 3.32 goals per game, ranking sixth in the league—the absence of Drouin and Necas was felt throughout the game. The Avalanche's power play, which ranked seventh in the league with a success rate of 25.4%, struggled to capitalize on their opportunities without two of their top forwards.

Meanwhile, the Blue Jackets, although ranking lower in power play efficiency at 19.3%, had been finding their groove offensively, scoring 17 regulation goals in their last three wins. Their ability to convert chances into goals was a key factor as they aimed to maintain their momentum against a formidable opponent.

Throughout the game, the physicality ramped up, with both teams not shying away from hard hits and aggressive play. The referees had their hands full as penalties were called, leading to several power plays for both teams. However, neither team could find the back of the net during these opportunities, as both goaltenders stood tall.

As the second period unfolded, the intensity only increased. The Avalanche were desperate to find an equalizer, and MacKinnon was at the forefront of their offensive efforts. His ability to create plays and distribute the puck effectively kept Columbus on their toes. However, the Blue Jackets' defense remained resolute, blocking shots and disrupting passing lanes.

In the final period, with the Avalanche trailing, the urgency mounted. Fans were on the edge of their seats, anticipating a comeback from Colorado. The Avalanche continued to press, generating scoring chances, but Merzlikins was up to the task, making several critical saves to preserve the lead.

As the clock wound down, the Avalanche's frustration grew, but they remained determined to find a way back into the game. The final moments were filled with tension as Colorado pulled their goaltender in a last-ditch effort to tie the game. However, the Blue Jackets held firm, and as the final buzzer sounded, they celebrated a hard-fought victory.

With this win, the Blue Jackets moved closer to securing a playoff spot, while the Avalanche were left to reflect on a game where they missed key players and struggled to find their rhythm. The rivalry between these two teams continues to intensify, setting the stage for future encounters as both teams vie for playoff positioning.