Dallas Stars Eliminate Colorado Avalanche in Game 7 Playoff Upset

The Colorado Avalanche's season ended in dramatic fashion as they blew a 2-0 third-period lead in Game 7 against the Dallas Stars, ultimately losing 4-2. Former Avalanche player Mikko Rantanen starred for Dallas, scoring a hat trick and assisting on the game-winning goal, marking a historic performance that included a four-point period. The Stars' comeback made NHL history as the first time a team has overcome a multi-goal deficit in the third period to win a Game 7 in regulation. The loss extended Colorado's record to seven consecutive Game 7 defeats across major sports leagues. Meanwhile, Dallas advanced to the next playoff round despite missing key players, with coach Pete DeBoer improving his Game 7 coaching record to 9-0. The Avalanche now face an offseason of questions and scrutiny, particularly for management decisions that contributed to their early exit.