NHL roundup: Avalanche claim top spot in Western Conference, Gibson has Ducks reunion

NHL Roundup: Avalanche Claim Top Spot in Western Conference

The NHL featured a straightforward three-game schedule on Friday without any shutouts or overtime. Fans in Anaheim witnessed a reunion with their former long-term goalie.

Colorado Avalanche vs. Vegas Golden Knights

Martin Necas of Colorado made a significant impact in his first game after signing an eight-year extension with the Avalanche on Thursday, scoring a goal and providing two assists. He opened the scoring 41 seconds into the game. His teammate Brock Nelson added a goal in the second period to give Colorado a 2-0 lead.

Tomas Hertl scored for the Golden Knights on a power play to narrow the gap.
Brent Burns netted his first goal of the season, assisted by Necas, making it 3-1.
Mitch Marner quickly responded for Vegas, cutting the lead to 3-2 in the third period.
Necas assisted on Cale Makar's empty-net goal, sealing the win.

The Avalanche earned their second consecutive victory and now sit atop the Western Conference with an 7-1-4 record (18 points). Vegas dropped to 6-2-3 (15 points).

New York Islanders vs. Washington Capitals

Tom Wilson scored first to put the Capitals ahead, but New York replied with three unanswered goals to secure the win.

Jean-Gabriel Pageau scored short-handed before the end of the first period.
Bo Horvat added a second goal to give the Islanders the lead.
Matthew Barzal, recently benched by coach Patrick Roy for personal reasons, scored an empty-net goal.

"Barzal scored the empty-netter to gift the Caps their third loss in the past five games."

The Islanders' comeback highlighted Washington's struggles, marking their third defeat in five games.

Author’s summary: Martin Necas led the Avalanche to the top of the Western Conference with a goal and two assists, while the Islanders rallied for a win over the Capitals, deepening Washington’s recent losses.

Flashscore.com — 2025-11-01