Colorado has the shot edge, but Nashville’s shot-blocking and strong goaltending have kept the game level.
Colorado and Nashville are tied 2-2 on Thursday, with the Avalanche leading 31-24 in shots while the Predators hold a 25-9 edge in blocked shots and lead hits 21-20. Colorado’s Parker Kelly (1-0-1, two shots, +1) and Jaden Schwartz (1-0-1, one shot, +1) have scored, while Martin Necas (0-1-1, three shots, +1) and Brock Nelson (0-1-1, one shot) have assists. Nashville’s Vitali Pinchuk (1-0-1, three shots, +1) and Ross Colton (1-0-1, two shots, +1) have answered, with Ryan O’Reilly adding an assist, two shots and three blocks. Justus Annunen has stopped 29 of 31 shots for a .935 save percentage, while Mackenzie Blackwood has 22 saves on 24 shots (.917); neither team has a power-play goal.
Key Performers
Parker Kelly, Colorado: 1 goal, 2 shots, +1 Vitali Pinchuk, Nashville: 1 goal, 3 shots, +1 Goalies: Annunen 29/31 (.935); Blackwood 22/24 (.917)