Gavin Brindley's OT Goal Lifts Avalanche Past Canucks
Gavin Brindley scored 1:08 into overtime, leading the Colorado Avalanche to a 5-4 victory over the Vancouver Canucks on Sunday night. Brindley carried the puck into the Vancouver zone and took a shot on goalie Kevin Lankinen. After Lankinen failed to control the rebound, Brindley tapped the puck between the goaltender’s legs to secure Colorado’s first win in six games beyond regulation.
Key Performances
- Nathan MacKinnon contributed two goals and three assists.
- Artturi Lehkonen also scored twice.
- Valeri Nichushkin recorded two assists.
- Mackenzie Blackwood made 29 saves in his second start of the season.
MacKinnon’s four-point night marked his second consecutive game with at least four points. He now leads the NHL in points (29) and goals (14).
Team Momentum
Colorado has won five of its last six games and earned at least one point in each game during that span. The Canucks’ loss ended their streak of four games without a regulation defeat.
Notable Goals
- Jake DeBrusk, Drew O'Connor, Kiefer Sherwood, and Linus Karlsson scored for Vancouver.
- MacKinnon gave Colorado an early 1-0 lead at 6:41 of the first period with a one-timer from a Nichushkin pass.
- MacKinnon’s second goal came just 1:29 later with a wrister past Lankinen.
"The goal was the 381st of MacKinnon's career, moving him past Peter Stastny to third place in franchise history. Joe Sakic (625) and Michel Goulet (456) hold the top spots."
Kevin Lankinen stopped 27 shots for Vancouver in the loss.
Author’s summary: Gavin Brindley’s overtime goal helped Colorado extend their strong season run, with Nathan MacKinnon demonstrating top scoring form and climbing franchise ranks.