Recap: Avs clinch Central Division title behind Nichushkin’s two-goal night

Jared Bednar and Colorado were unable to clinch the division on home ice against the Blues on Easter Sunday, but they would get another crack at it tonight in St. Louis. Their second meeting in three days fit the season of rematches and revenge, with Colorado finishing with two points this time around.

Valeri Nichushkin would score twice, including a shorthanded goal, with Martin Necas netting the other for the Avalanche, and Scott Wedgewood collecting 19/20 saves and his 29th win of the season. The Game Val Nichushkin had one goal in his last twelve games before tonight’s game, but he picked a great night to get out of his skid and started the scoring with a wonderful re-direct. Sam Malinski made a nice pass along the blue line that found Devon Toews’ stick.

His point blast was deflected past Hofer, who didn’t stand a chance behind Nichkuskin’s large frame. Colorado took the 1-0 lead with 3:29 left in the first frame. Volume way up 🔊 pic.

twitter. com/j7Mm6rklld — z – Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) April 8, 2026 Just when it looked like we’d head to the intermission, a one-goal game, Colorado’s top line and D pair pinned the Blues in their own end in patented Avalanche fashion. MacKinnon was strong on the puck in the corner, which, when supported by a pinch from Devon Toews, turned dangerous.