The Colorado Avalanche played some sloppy hockey. They took some bad penalties, including a delay of game that sent Altitude TV host Mark Rycroft into conniptions and yet another too many men. Defense was lacking.
And yet the Avalanche beat the Montreal Canadiens 2-1. They’re now 2-1 on the home stand with one game left. They’re now seven points ahead of their next Central Division challenger for third seed, the Dallas Stars.
You can thank two entities that always bail the Avs out — the goalie and the top line.
This game was important for more than standings, though.