The Colorado Avalanche came out flying in the first period last night, jumping out to an early lead. The first period ended 3-1, Tampa Bay simply could not keep up with the pace set by Colorado, and as a result, they found themselves trailing. The Avalanche were constantly putting pressure on the Tampa Bay defense, and their forwards were able to find open space with ease. Tampa Bay goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy was kept busy all night.
It was clear from the start that Colorado’s offense was going to be a challenge for Tampa Bay. The Lightning was immediately on their heels, as the Avalanche put up quick goals in the first period. However, Tampa Bay settled down in the second period and began to take back the game. Thanks to some stellar goaltending by Andrei Vasilevskiy and some timely scoring, the Lightning were able to tie the game and go to overtime.
In the end, Tampa Bay’s experience and resolve shone through as they were able to save face in Denver.
In any sport, the first game of a playoff series is always crucial. It can set the tone for the rest of the series and often sets the stage for how the rest of the games will play out. For the Colorado Avalanche, their first game against the Edmonton Oilers was a close one. But games two and three were blowouts. Now, as they partake on the biggest stage in hockey, there is a chance that they could take the Stanley Cup in four games.
The Colorado Avalanche retooled after game one of the conference finals against Edmonton. The move paid off as they ran off with the series and advanced to the Stanley Cup Finals. Now, they face their biggest challenge yet in the form of Tampa Bay goalie Andre Vasilevskiy. Vasilevskiy has been outstanding this postseason. He will be a tough test for the Avalanche, but if they can solve him, they will have a good chance to take home the Stanley Cup. The Avalanche need to replicate their success in games two and three like against Edmonton.
However, it could be a long series if they let Tampa back in. Either way, it should be an exciting series to watch.
