ANAHEIM, Calif. — Two hours before Sunday’s game, Avalanche coach Jared Bednar identified the importance of defeating the Anaheim Ducks in regulation at Honda Center. There’s no three-point games in the playoffs, and Colorado can’t afford to win or lose in overtime against the very teams it’s competing against for a playoff spot.
“We’re expecting a playoff game tonight. I mean, that’s essentially what this is,” Bednar said.
The Avs (92 points) are in a tight battle with three teams for a Western Conference wild-card berth, although Anaheim (93) or Los Angeles (94) will end up as the Pacific Division’s No.