Colorado Avalanche Face Dallas Stars in Game 5 of Stanley Cup Playoffs

The Colorado Avalanche and Dallas Stars are tied 2-2 in their opening-round 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs series, entering a pivotal Game 5. Colorado evened the series with a commanding 4-0 shutout in Game 4, highlighted by captain Gabriel Landeskog's emotional return and first goal in nearly three years, and goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood's first playoff shutout. The Avalanche have focused on consistency and refining their game plan, maintaining strong defensive habits and offensive pressure, which they aim to continue in the upcoming matchup. Dallas, meanwhile, is looking to regain momentum at home, with key players like Roope Hintz and Jason Robertson expected to step up, and hopes for the return of defenseman Miro Heiskanen from injury. Both teams have shown resilience, trading wins and adjusting strategies, making Game 5 a crucial turning point in this tightly contested series. The Avalanche are expected to keep their lineup unchanged, relying on their recent intensity and balanced contributions to seek a series lead.