Colton's Two Goals and Annunen's 25 Saves Lead Avalanche to 4-1 Victory Over Winless Sharks

Avalanche Triumph 4-1 Over Winless Sharks

SAN JOSE, Calif. -- Ross Colton led the Colorado Avalanche with two goals, while Justus Annunen made 25 saves in his first start of the season, helping the team beat the winless San Jose Sharks 4-1 on Sunday.

Cale Makar contributed an empty-net goal and two assists, and Joel Kiviranta added another score for Colorado. William Eklund found the net for San Jose.

Colton has been on fire, scoring five goals in his last three games, including two against Anaheim. He established a 2-0 lead for the Avalanche in the first period, netting a power play goal at 6:23 and another at even strength with only 3:23 remaining.

Makar is impressive this season, recording 10 assists in six games, showcasing his ability to influence play consistently.

Eklund cut the deficit to 2-1 late in the first. Kiviranta extended Colorado's lead to 3-1 in the third, assisted by a precise feed from defenseman Josh Manson, which dampened San Jose's momentum. Makar's late empty-net goal sealed the game.

San Jose's goaltender Vitek Vanecek stopped 18 shots, while the Sharks continued to struggle this season without a win, echoing their slow start last year.

The Avalanche are managing three goalies during their trip, with Alexandar Georgiev, the NHL victory leader from last season, backing up Annunen. Kaapo Kahkonen, claimed off waivers, may start during the trip.

Avalanche next face Seattle on Tuesday, while San Jose heads to Anaheim the same night.