This Avalanche forward hit a notable milestone in Game 1.

The Colorado Avalanche suffered a tough 7-6 loss to the Winnipeg Jets in Game 1. While the Avalanche's offense showed up, they struggled mightily defensively, and Alexandar Georgiev had another rough start. Now, their goal will be to bounce back and secure a victory in Game 2 on Tuesday.

While this game was a disappointing one for the Avalanche, it did have a positive moment. Forward Casey Mittelstadt recorded his first career playoff goal. 

Mittelstadt's goal came during the final minute of the third period. It gave the Avalanche some life late, as it made them only down by one goal. However, the Jets, of course, shut the door from there.

Due to the fact that the Sabres did not make the playoffs once during Mittelstadt's seven-year stint there, Game 1 was his first career playoff contest. From an offensive standpoint, he showed up during it. 

If the Avalanche hope to turn things around immediately, they are going to need players like Mittelstadt to continue to produce offensively. The Avalanche brought him in at the deadline to be a big part of their top six for a reason. While his start with the club has had mixed results, there's no question that he has the potential to be a real X-factor for them.

We will need to wait and see how much of an impact Mittelstadt makes for the Avs from here on out. Getting his first career playoff goal was certainly a step in the right direction. 

Recent Avalanche news 

Cale Makar breaks Avalanche team record

Avalanche goalie expected to sign overseas

Avalanche goalie officially calls it a career

3 Avalanche players who had career years in 2023-24

Avalanche forwards have developed special friendship on and off ice

Marc-Andre Fleury's prank war with Avalanche forward isn't over