The Colorado Avalanche will face the Minnesota Wild on Monday night, May 12, 2026 [2], for Game 4 of their second-round Stanley Cup playoff series [1].
This matchup is critical for Colorado as the team attempts to recover from a decisive 5-1 loss in Game 3 [1]. A victory would allow the Avalanche to regain momentum and shift the series balance in their favor.
To spark a turnaround, the Avalanche are implementing a significant change in net. Mackenzie Blackwood will start in goal for Game 4, replacing Scott Wedgewood [3]. The decision to swap goaltenders comes as the team looks for more stability in the crease following the previous game's blowout.
The defensive corps will also see a boost with the return of Josh Manson, who is confirmed to play in Game 4 [4]. Manson's presence on the blue line is expected to provide more physicality and veteran leadership during a high-stakes playoff environment.
However, the roster is not without its losses. Veli-Matti Lehkonen will remain out of the lineup for Game 4 due to an injury [5]. His absence leaves a gap in the forward rotation that the coaching staff must fill while trying to neutralize the Minnesota offense.
The series remains a tight contest as both teams fight for positioning in the second round. The Avalanche are focusing on a rebound strategy to ensure they do not fall further behind in the series standings before the game begins this Monday night [2].
“Mackenzie Blackwood will start in goal for Game 4, replacing Scott Wedgewood”
The decision to change goaltenders and reintegrate Josh Manson suggests that the Avalanche are treating Game 4 as a pivot point in the series. By prioritizing a defensive refresh and a new presence in goal, Colorado is attempting to stop the scoring momentum of the Minnesota Wild and stabilize their own play to avoid a series deficit.
