The Colorado Avalanche suffered a 2-0 defeat at the hands of the Detroit Red Wings on Monday night, February 2nd, at Ball Arena. This loss marks the first time the Avalanche have been shut out this season and ends their 87-game streak of scoring at least one goal, which dated back to February 4, 2025. Here are three key takeaways from the game:

1. Goaltending and Early Deficit

John Gibson's stellar performance in goal for the Red Wings was a major factor in the Avalanche's defeat. He recorded 21 saves, earning his fourth shutout of the season and the 28th of his career. The Red Wings set the tone early, with Marco Kasper scoring just 33 seconds into the game after a Colorado turnover. According to coach Jared Bednar, an unnecessary pinch by Devon Toews sent the Wings back the other way on a two-on-one. Lucas Raymond then passed to Kasper for an easy tap-in. Falling behind so quickly put the Avalanche on their heels and forced them to play catch-up for the remainder of the contest.

Avalanche goalie Mackenzie Blackwood played well, stopping 23 of 24 shots, but the early goal and lack of offensive support were too much to overcome. Blackwood's record fell to 15-5-1. Devon Toews praised Blackwood's performance, stating that he made key saves to keep the team in the game.

2. Offensive Struggles

The Avalanche offense, which had been potent for most of the season, struggled mightily in this game. They couldn't solve Gibson, who was coming off a game on Saturday where he allowed four goals on 17 shots in a 5-0 loss to Colorado. Colorado had just 22 shots on goal. According to Bednar, the Avalanche "didn't have our full energy tonight" and that "it's hard to create against a team like that". The Red Wings deserve credit for checking really well. The absence of key offensive players like Gabe Landeskog, Martin Necas, and Drew O'Connor due to injuries also hampered the Avalanche's ability to generate scoring chances.

3. Red Wings' Redemption and Defensive Play

The Red Wings, after suffering a 5-0 defeat to the Avalanche just two days prior, showed resilience and determination in this game. They not only managed to shut down the Avalanche's offense but also capitalized on their own scoring opportunities. Their defensive structure was solid, limiting the Avalanche's chances and preventing them from establishing any sustained pressure. This victory snaps a long losing streak for Detroit against Colorado, marking only their second win in the last 16 games against the Avalanche. It is also their first regulation win against the Avalanche since 2017. Lucas Raymond sealed the win with an empty-net goal with 30 seconds remaining.