Nazem Kadri had three goals, including two in the middle period, when the Colorado Avalanche defeated St. Louis. Louis Blues 6-3 on Monday to lead 3-1 in the Western semifinals.
Kadri’s performance came after he received death threats posed by the race on social media after game three.
In Saturday’s tournament, Kadri collided with Blues goalkeeper Jordan Binnington in the first period. St. Louis police are investigating. Louis the threats, and the NHL said Monday that the league and police are working to strengthen security at the arena and hotel.
Colorado controlled the game with three goals in 1:48 early in the second period. Erik Johnson started the ball rolling, Kadri gave his side a 2-1 lead and Devon Toews followed 19 seconds later.
Kadri’s second goal came seven seconds after the Blues ran out of a two-man penalty kill.
It was a first playoff hat trick for Kadri, who was beaten hard every time he touched the puck.
Mikko Rantanen also scored on an empty net for the Avalanche.
Goaltender Darcy Kuemper made 17 saves. He was defeated only by David Perron, author of the double, and by Pavel Buchnevich. At the other end of the rink, Ville Husso stopped for 31 shots.
The Avalanche has been undefeated in four games on the opposing ice since the playoffs began. All other teams are defeated at least once at the opponent’s home.
Source: Radio-Canada
