Mackenzie Blackwood will start in goal for the Avalanche, replacing Scott Wedgewood, who was pulled in Game 3 after allowing three goals on 12 shots. Why this matters: Blackwood's performance could be pivotal in determining whether the Avalanche maintain their series lead.
Artturi Lehkonen and Sam Malinski are out with upper-body injuries. Josh Manson and Joel Kiviranta are returning to the lineup after recovering from their respective injuries. Why this matters: These lineup changes will test the Avalanche's depth and adaptability.
Joel Eriksson Ek remains sidelined for the Wild with a lower-body injury. Why this matters: Eriksson Ek's absence impacts the Wild's depth.
Jesper Wallstedt started in goal for the Wild in Game 3 and had a strong performance. This follows a series of goaltending changes for the Wild. Why this matters: Consistent goaltending is crucial for the Wild to get back in the series.
Mackenzie Blackwood gets the nod in Game 4 after Scott Wedgewood struggled in Game 3. Blackwood had a .904 save percentage and a 2.51 goals-against average in 39 regular-season games. He also has a strong record following a loss during the regular season, with an 8-2-0 record and a 2.20 goals-against average.
Avalanche:: Artturi Lehkonen and Sam Malinski are sidelined with injuries, while Josh Manson and Joel Kiviranta return. Jack Ahcan will make his playoff debut on the second pairing alongside Manson.
Wild:: Joel Eriksson Ek remains out with a lower-body injury.
These changes come as both teams look to gain an edge in what has been a tightly contested series. The Avalanche are hoping Blackwood can provide stability in net, while the Wild need Wallstedt to continue his strong play.
Q: Why is Blackwood starting over Wedgewood?
Wedgewood was pulled in Game 3 after allowing three goals on 12 shots.
Q: Who is out with injuries for the Avalanche?
Artturi Lehkonen and Sam Malinski are out with upper-body injuries.
Q: Is Joel Eriksson Ek playing for the Wild?
No, he remains sidelined with a lower-body injury.
Mackenzie Blackwood will start Game 4 for the Avalanche.
Artturi Lehkonen is out with an upper-body injury.
Josh Manson and Joel Kiviranta are back in the Avalanche lineup.
Joel Eriksson Ek remains out for the Wild.
The Avalanche lead the series 2-1.
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