Avalanche Clinch Playoff Spot, Blackhawks Fall

0:00This is Corey with the story with NHL News today, powered by the Daily News Now. Subscribe for daily updates on your team. The Colorado Avalanche grabbed the first play-out spot this season, with a solid 4-to-1 win over the Chicago Black Hawks on Friday. They also hit 100 points for the fifth year in a row, finishing with a record of 45 wins, 13 losses, and 10 overtime losses. Martin Neckas led the way with a goal and two assists, while Nathan McKinnon dished out three helpers. Beleri Nechuskin added a goal and an assist, and McKinsey Blackwood stopped 19 shots in net for Colorado, who bounced back after going. 0-2 and 1 in their last three games. Chicago got a goal from Wyek Heizer, but Arvid Soder Blombs stood tall with 45 saves in a tough outing. The Black Hawks had beaten Minnesota 2-1 the night before, and kept it close despite getting outshot heavily early on. The Black Hawks sat out forward, Andrew Manjapani and defenseman, Louis Krevier, due to undisclosed injuries from Thursday's game.

1:02Coach Jeff Blaschill expects both back soon without long-term issues. This clinch puts the Avalanche ahead of the pack, as the regular season winds down, setting them up strong for a deep playoff run.