Avalanche defender looking to stay hot

After a nice break, the Colorado Avalanche will finally begin their second round on Tuesday (May 7). The Dallas Stars won Game 7 against the Vegas Golden Knights on Sunday (May 5), and now the Avalanche will be going up against their division rival because of it.

The Stars are an incredibly tough team. They have several high-impact forwards, a strong blueline, and a very good goaltender in Jake Oettinger. As a result, the Avalanche hope their players can carry over their success in their first round against the Winnipeg Jets.

One player who stepped up big-time in the first round was Josh Manson. While the right-shot defenseman is more known for his dependable defensive play, he flexed his offensive muscles against the Jets. The 32-year-old posted two goals, five points, and a plus-5 rating in five games. He also ended the series on a high note, posting a goal and an assist in the series-clinching Game 5.

Several of the Avalanche's players provided great offense, but Manson was arguably the most surprising. Now, his goal will be to translate his hot steak into this upcoming series against the Stars.

If Manson continues to play well defensively and chip in offensively, it will only make the Avalanche even harder to go up against. He showed against the Jets that he can be an impactful offensive threat on the point, and it will be massive if he continues to be against Dallas.

Recent Avalanche news

'Our next five are going to have to be even better': Avalanche not taking foot off gas while waiting for next opponent

Avalanche different from last season's early playoff exit team

Colorado Avalanche advance to 2nd round after defeating Winnipeg Jets in 5 games

Cale Makar gets Norris Trophy nomination for 4th year in a row