from Kristen Shilton of ESPN,

After dominating three rounds of their postseason competition, the Colorado Avalanche are headed to the Stanley Cup Final.

The Avs' superstars have delivered, as Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar are both making strong cases for the Conn Smythe. But they've gotten superb production from depth players as well, including a series-winning goal from Artturi Lehkonen in Game 4 against the Edmonton Oilers. With their second series sweep of the postseason, it's taken the Avalanche only 14 games to roll through three opponents.

What makes the Avs so exciting to watch -- and so difficult for the opposition to defeat? Let's explore the key factors as Colorado has moved one step closer to the Cup.

Yes, Colorado is that good

Let's start with the facts: In eliminating Edmonton, the Avalanche became just the sixth team in the last 20 seasons to sweep a conference final series. That places Colorado in elite company -- but not necessarily on the fast track to a Stanley Cup win.

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