Avalanche’s Nichushkin hat trick propels team to third consecutive victory, puts Jets on the edge of elimination

Valeri Nichushkin’s hat trick led the Colorado Avalanche to a dominant 5-1 victory over the Winnipeg Jets on Sunday, putting the Jets in a must-win situation for the remainder of the first-round playoff series.

Nichushkin scored two power-play goals and added an empty-netter to secure the win for the Avalanche, who now hold a commanding 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven matchup. Artturi Lehkonen and Cale Makar also found the back of the net for Colorado, with Nathan MacKinnon contributing two assists.

Despite a lone goal from Nate Schmidt, the Jets struggled to generate offense and will need to bounce back in Game 5 on Tuesday night to avoid elimination at Canada Life Centre.

The Avalanche came out strong in front of a raucous home crowd at Ball Arena, dominating play and outshooting the Jets early on. Casey Mittelstadt set up Lehkonen for the opening goal, but Winnipeg responded with Schmidt’s equalizer.

Colorado took control in the second period, with Makar showcasing his skill with a highlight-reel coast-to-coast goal. Nichushkin’s two power-play goals and a late empty-netter sealed the victory for the Avalanche.

Winnipeg’s top lines were stifled by the Avalanche defense once again, as Laurent Brossoit replaced Connor Hellebuyck in goal after the second period. The Jets also faced injury concerns as Vladislav Namestnikov took a slapshot to the head but was able to skate off under his own power.

Nichushkin’s hat trick capped off a dominant performance by the Avalanche, who outshot the Jets 35-26 in the game. With Game 5 looming, the pressure is on Winnipeg to turn the series around and keep their playoff hopes alive.