Ivan gets first NHL goal as Colorado Avalanche impress in win over Utah Hockey Club

The Colorado Avalanche defeated the Utah Hockey Club 5-1 for the fourth win in a row on Thursday night at the Delta Center. The Avalanche impressed in the win, after reeling off three-straight wins against subpar teams.

Against the Hockey Club, the Avalanche faced a much tougher challenge given Utah’s high-octane offense. On the whole, the Avs played a complete game, stymying Utah’s potent offense with stifling defense.

Meanwhile, the Avs’ powerful offense got the job done, popping five goals for the win. Justus Annnuen had another strong start, his third straight.

With that in mind, here’s a look at some key notes regarding Thursday night’s Colorado Avalanche win over the Utah Hockey Club.

Notes from the Colorado Avalanche’s win over the Utah Hockey Club

Makar adds to league-leading totals

Cale Makar scored a nifty goal, looking more like a forward than a defenseman. With the goal, Makar now leads the league with 15 points (3G, 12A). Makar has looked good all year, playing fantastic offense and holding his own defensively.

At this rate, Makar could eclipse the 100-point mark, including him on an exclusive list with legends like Bobby Orr, Paul Coffey, Al MacInnis, Brian Leetch, and Denis Potvin.

Ivan notches first NHL goal

Thursday night’s game was a memorable one for Ivan Ivan. Ivan scored his first NHL goal, on the power play no less. Ivan’s goal was a power play marker, putting the Avs ahead 4-0 at the time late in the second period.

For Ivan, the goal marked his third point in eight games this season. He’s looked increasingly confident, suggesting he’ll be a mainstay on the Avs’ bottom six for the foreseeable future.

Annunen was sharp once again

Annunen took a shutout bid late into the third period until Lawson Crouse put one past him to get Utah on the board.

For Annunen, it was another fantastic start. He made 25 saves for his third win in a row. At this point, there’s little doubt that Annunen has taken the starting goaltender job and run with it. With Annunen stepping up, it alleviates the pressure on the Avs needing to find a reliable goaltender to carry the load.

While there are still question marks in the crease, Annunen’s performance of late has helped the team breathe a sigh of relief.