Avalanche face must-win matchup against Stars

The Colorado Avalanche face a must-win game on Wednesday night amid the tightening standings in the Central Division.

Mar 6, 2026; Dallas, Texas, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Martin Necas (88) scores the game winning goal against Dallas Stars goaltender Jake Oettinger (29) during the overtime shootout period at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images | Jerome Miron-Imagn ImagesA couple of months ago, it seemed ludicrous to imagine any team challenging the Colorado Avalanche for the top spot in the Central Division.

But injuries and a more pedestrian performance have opened the door for other contenders to close the gap on the Avalanche. Entering Wednesday’s…