Three keys for Avs

Special teams. A functionality to their Game 4 showing in this area is needed. The Avs scored a power play goal Thursday night and went 2-for-2 on the penalty kill. And they committed just two penalties that led to San Jose power plays. Colorado’s discipline and implementation were equally strong in all facets of teams and will have to be back on San Jose ice.

Mac and Mikko. Hey, if NHL playoff points leaders Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen can’t be stopped the Avs may not be stopped. They are too good and up to this point, they have been remarkably consistent. MacKinnon extended his playoff points streak to eight games with the all-important primary goal in Game 4 and Rantanen was the MVP of the match with two main aids. They enter Game 5 with a 13 playoff points each.

Neutral-zone flow. The Avs are 6-3 in the playoffs and 14-4-2 in their last 20 games . They know what makes them powerful, and it starts with limiting neutral-zone turnovers and creating a offensive attack. Their shield — from goalie Philipp Grubauer into the defensemen and defending forwards — has been excellent and there’s absolutely not any reason. The elements have been a sustained attack and clean offensive-zone entrances. If they are able to be solid in those two regions, the Avs could be in a scenario Monday night in Game 6 at the Pepsi Center.

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