Avalanche Defeat Rangers 5-4 with Last-Minute Goal

The Colorado Avalanche secured a dramatic 5-4 victory over the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden, with Artturi Lehkonen scoring the decisive goal with just 14.7 seconds remaining. Cale Makar played a pivotal role, scoring twice and assisting the winning goal immediately after exiting the penalty box, underscoring his value following the team's recent trade of star player Mikko Rantanen. The Rangers, who were on a 10-game points streak, tied the game late through Artemi Panarin, but failed to capitalize on a late power play. Mackenzie Blackwood's crucial saves, including a last-minute denial of Mika Zibanejad, were instrumental for the Avalanche. The match marked the Avalanche's first win since acquiring Martin Necas and Jack Drury, both of whom contributed significantly to the team's performance. Meanwhile, the Rangers' Igor Shesterkin struggled, allowing five goals on 21 shots, a rare dip in form for the usually stellar goaltender.