Colorado Avalanche Week Ahead: Schedule & Storylines – Berth Clenched, Nelson’s Heroics, Presidents’ Trophy and More – The Hockey Writers – Colorado Avalanche

Here is a look at the key storylines for the Colorado Avalanche right now, along with their schedule and outlook for the week of March 23-30, 2026.

Captain Landeskog Returns from a Painful Injury

Gabriel Landeskog made his return to the lineup on Sunday, March 22, and scored a goal in a 3-2 overtime win over the Washington Capitals.

He had been sidelined since March 6 after taking a 96-mph Cale Makar slapshot to the groin, which required a “quick surgery.”

First to Clinch a Playoff Berth

The Avalanche (currently boasting a league-leading 46-13-10 record with 102 points) officially became the first team in the NHL to clinch a spot in the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs. They secured their ticket following a dominant 4-1 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks on Friday, March 20.

Brock Nelson’s OT Heroics

Brock Nelson was the hero in Sunday’s 3-2 overtime victory against Washington, redirecting a feed from Martin Nečas. The game also made national headlines because Capitals star Alex Ovechkin scored his 1,000th career goal (combined regular season and playoffs) against Colorado.

The Race for the Presidents’ Trophy

While the Avs lead the league, the Dallas Stars are breathing right down their necks. Dallas recently defeated Colorado 2-1 in a shootout, tightening the race for the top spot in the Central Division, Western Conference, and overall NHL standings.

Avalanche Upcoming Schedule

With a playoff spot already locked up, the Avalanche’s main goal over the next week is maintaining their lead over the Stars for the Central Division crown and the No. 1 overall seed. The most critical stretch of this week is the home-and-home series against the Winnipeg Jets on Thursday and Saturday.

Expect head coach Jared Bednar to manage his goaltending tandem (Scott Wedgewood and Mackenzie Blackwood) to ensure they are rested for the postseason, while prioritizing the health of key stars like Nathan MacKinnon and Makar.

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