Avalanche’s closeout bid jolted as Blackwood pulled after 3 first-period goals

DENVER (AP) — Mackenzie Blackwood made his second straight start for the Colorado Avalanche on Wednesday night but was pulled after allowing three goals in the first period.

Scott Wedgewood, who won six of his seven starts in the Stanley Cup playoffs, replaced Blackwood to start the second period with the Avalanche trailing 3-0.

Blackwood, who won Game 4 in St. Paul, Minnesota, surrendered a goal to Marcus Johansson just 34 seconds into Game 5, then allowed a pair of goals to Nick Foligno.

The Avalanche were hoping to close out a playoff series at home for the first time in more than 18 years. If they lose Game 5, they'll return to Minnesota for Game 6 on Friday night.

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