VANCOUVER, British Columbia – After giving up a late game tying power play goal to Vancouver’s Daniel Sedin it seemed as if the Avalanche chance to win this game and ensure a playoff berth might be in doubt.
Five minutes of overtime decided nothing and it was on to the shoot out;
First up was Canuck, Ryan Kesler who was stoned by the Avalanche goal tender, Craig Anderson.
Colorado brought out veteran Milan Hedjuk to take their first shot. He was not able to beat Roberto Luongo.
Sharpshooter Pavol Demitra was next up for the Vancouver Canucks and his best move was not good enough to get by Anderson.
Chris Stewart who is three of six in shootout attempts looked to get the Avalanche in the plus column for the shootout but Luongo held the fort and he too was turned aside.
Kyle Wellwood skated in on Anderson looking to put the Canucks in position to win but his effort was stopped by a determined Avalanche goalie.
Shooter number three for the Colorado Avalanche was the first round draft pick from this past Summer, Matt Duchene, whose rookie year has been a Calder trophy worthy effort. True to his pedigree he skated in calmly and roofed a shot up and under the crossbar to send the Avalanche back to the playoffs.
With three games left in the regular season to fine tune their approach the Avalanche can finally rest Craig Anderson and a few other players who may need an extra day or two off to be in top shape to start the post season.
Exactly where Colorado will be seeded is not yet certain but for the moment just being assured of a playoff spot is cause for celebration for the Avalanche and their fans.
Contact the author at terry.sanford@prohockeynews.com
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