The Colorado Avalanche faced a disappointing start to the Western Conference Finals, losing 4-2 to the Vegas Golden Knights. Despite being favored due to their strong playoff performance, the Avalanche fell into a 3-0 deficit early in the game. Star center Nathan MacKinnon was openly critical of the team's execution, stating, 'We just weren't sharp. Execution was poor from everybody.' This sentiment was echoed by head coach Jared Bednar, who expressed a desire for greater urgency from his players earlier in the game. The absence of elite defenseman Cale Makar was felt throughout, as Colorado struggled with defensive miscommunications that the opportunistic Golden Knights capitalized on. Although the Avalanche managed to score twice late in the game, including a power-play goal assisted by MacKinnon, the loss puts immediate pressure on them heading into Game 2. With the series shifting to Vegas soon, the Avalanche must regroup to avoid falling into an 0-2 hole on home ice.