Winnipeg Jets - Colorado Avalanche predictions and free betting tips [01/05/2024]

The Winnipeg Jets will be hosting the Colorado Avalanche tomorrow morning as part of the Western Conference NHL playoffs first round's fifth match.

Winnipeg Jets

The Winnipeg Jets are experiencing difficulties in the first round of the playoffs, trailing the series 1-3. Despite a promising win that started the series, the Jets suffered three consecutive defeats to the Avalanche. They face significant challenges, particularly in defence, having conceded 22 goals in the four games so far. Their attack also hasn't lived up to expectations, scoring a mere 5 goals in the last three games. Although Kyle Connor and Mark Scheifele have been active, the other offensive players haven't been able to keep up.

Laurent Brossoit was called to replace Hellebuyck in the fourth game to give him a breather, but it didn't make a difference to the series outcome. The team has also been dealing with injuries to key players: Russian player Vladislav Namestnikov suffered a cheekbone fracture but is expected to return for the fifth game, while Brenden Dillon has been ruled out due to a left-hand injury.

Colorado Avalanche

The Colorado Avalanche are on the brink of advancing to the next playoff round, currently leading the series 3-1. In the second period of their last game, the team managed to score three goals, securing a 5:1 victory. Valeri Nichushkin scored a hat trick, with Nathan MacKinnon adding two assists. Goalkeeper Alexander Georgiev also displayed a high level of skill, deflecting 26 out of 27 shots. Colorado's attack continues to dominate the series, scoring a total of 22 goals, including an impressive 11 goals over their last two matches. Their defensive efforts have also been commendable, allowing only 12 goals throughout the series, with a mere 5 goals conceded over the last three matches.

In addition, the Avalanche has demonstrated robust defensive play. Cale Makar and Devon Toews spearhead the main pair of defenders, with Sean Walker and Josh Manson bolstering the defensive lines and limiting the opponent's shots. Georgiev has deflected 92 out of 104 shots in the series, affirming his key role. Not everything has been smooth though, Georgiev allowed 7 goals in the first game but hasn't conceded more than 2 in subsequent games. 

Prediction for the Winnipeg Jets vs Colorado Avalanche match

Colorado is looking very strong, Nichushkin has finally found his game and is making a significant impact in the attack. I anticipate that the Avalanche will wrap up the series on the road and await their Western semi-final opponent.