In a season where the Colorado Avalanche have already given fans plenty to marvel at, one stat stands out above the rest - and it’s not just impressive, it’s downright jaw-dropping.
Thirty-two times this season, the Avs have held a multi-goal lead. Thirty-two times, they’ve walked away with the win. That’s right: 32-0-0 when leading by two or more goals at any point in a game.
In today’s NHL, where no lead feels safe and momentum can flip on a dime, that kind of perfection is rare. The San Jose Sharks nearly snapped the streak, storming back from a two-goal deficit in the third period on Wednesday. But Josh Manson stepped up late with the game-winner, and Brock Nelson iced it with an empty-netter.
Let’s dig into 10 key takeaways from that game - and what they tell us about where this Avalanche team is heading.
1. Manson’s Reaction Says It All
When Josh Manson was told about the 32-0-0 stat, he was as surprised as the rest of us. “I didn’t know that,” he admitted. But his explanation made sense: “If we’re up by two, it’s because we’re playing well, and when we’re playing well, it’s hard for teams to come back on us.”
It’s simple, but it tracks. The Avalanche aren’t just building leads - they’re locking teams down once they have them.
2. Manson’s Quietly Having a Career Year
Manson isn’t one to talk himself up, but he’s quietly putting together one of the best offensive seasons of his career. He’s already at 24 points, just one shy of his best mark with Colorado, and within striking distance of his career high of 37.
He’s been playing on the left side, adjusting well, and credits a lot of his success to his partner Brent Burns and the team’s strong overall play. It’s a classic case of a player thriving in the right environment - and making the most of his opportunities.
3. Another Clutch Moment for Manson
That goal against the Sharks was Manson’s second game-winner of the season and his fourth since joining the Avs. Add in the playoffs - including that memorable one against St.
Louis - and he’s got five clutch tallies in Colorado colors. He’s not just contributing - he’s delivering when it matters most.
4. MacKinnon Hits 700 Assists
Nathan MacKinnon keeps stacking milestones. He notched his 700th career assist on Artturi Lehkonen’s second goal of the night.
Since the start of the 2022-23 season, MacKinnon has dished out 294 assists in 287 games. That’s elite-level consistency from one of the league’s premier playmakers.
5. Brock Nelson’s Breakout Season Rolls On
Brock Nelson is heading into the break with 29 goals in 55 games - just nine shy of setting a new career high. Not many expected this kind of production from him, but it’s been a game-changer for the Avs.
Having a No. 2 center playing at this level gives Colorado the kind of lineup depth that makes them a nightmare matchup. It’s a big reason why they’re near the top of the standings.
6. Power Play Woes Continue
Here’s the one area that’s still lagging: the power play. When you factor in shorthanded goals allowed, the Avs are producing at under 10% efficiency - dead last in the league.
That’s a brutal number for a team with this much offensive talent. It’s something they’ll need to address if they want to make a deep playoff run.
7. Askarov Stands Tall for San Jose
Yaroslav Askarov was nothing short of spectacular in net for the Sharks. Colorado controlled the game for long stretches, but Askarov kept it close with a string of highlight-reel saves. The trade that brought him over from Nashville is looking smarter by the day.
If San Jose finds a way into the postseason, he’ll be a big reason why.
8. Bardakov’s Penalty Count Creeping Up
Zakhar Bardakov has only taken six minor penalties this season - which doesn’t sound like much until you consider how limited his ice time has been. Three of those calls came in just a four-game stretch.
It’s not a major concern, but it’s something to watch. Discipline matters, especially for players fighting to earn more minutes.
9. Blackwood Seizing the Moment
Jared Bednar stuck with Mackenzie Blackwood for a third straight start, and it’s paying off. Scott Wedgewood had a rough outing in Montreal, and Blackwood has responded by finding his rhythm again.
This is the time of year when teams need clarity in net. Wedgewood did a great job holding things down when Blackwood was out, but now it’s No. 39’s crease to lose. And he’s earning it.
10. Nichushkin Finds His Groove Again
The goals haven’t come just yet, but Valeri Nichushkin looked like a different player alongside MacKinnon. He posted a +4 rating and picked up three assists against the Sharks - a strong response after a stretch where confidence seemed to wane.
Head coach Jared Bednar acknowledged Nichushkin’s slump, but this performance could be the spark he needs. Heading into the break, it’s a good sign for both the player and the team.
Bottom Line
This Avalanche team has found a formula that works - build a lead, lock it down, and let the stars shine. The 32-0-0 stat isn’t just a quirky footnote. It’s a reflection of a team that knows how to close, and in the NHL, that’s a rare and dangerous trait.
With MacKinnon hitting milestones, Manson stepping up, and players like Nelson and Nichushkin elevating their games, Colorado is heading into the break with serious momentum - and a clear identity.
If they can clean up the power play and keep riding strong goaltending, there’s no telling how far this team can go.