DENVER — Quick to burst through defenses, Nathan MacKinnon’s blazing speed is a well-known, yet daunting, challenge to any team he faces. Such rapidity has not only made him a significant threat on the ice for the Colorado Avalanche but has also set an impressive pace for his journey through the annals of hockey history. Approaching a remarkable milestone, MacKinnon is on the verge of joining esteemed company alongside Joe Sakic and Peter Stastny as the only players in team history to achieve 1,000 points.
The current holder of the NHL MVP title recently achieved 100 points this season before anyone else in the league. His coach, Jared Bednar, showers him with praise, recognizing MacKinnon as a player of immense growth and leadership, whose consistency ensures he remains a formidable force every time he skates onto the rink. His contributions aren’t confined to offense alone: his defensive skills are continuously evolving.
MacKinnon values team success over personal achievements. The Avalanche’s lineup has welcomed experienced members like Charlie Coyle and Erik Johnson, with MacKinnon appreciating the dynamic these veterans bring to the team. Reflecting on a recent victory against Toronto, where he scored two goals, MacKinnon expressed excitement over the team’s fresh roster’s immediate impact.
In adapting to changes, MacKinnon’s quick adaptability is evident. Following Mika Rantanen’s trade for Martin Necas, MacKinnon’s seamless integration with his new linemate Necas has been notable. Since joining, Necas has accumulated five goals and 11 assists, thanks in part to MacKinnon’s leading influence. His skills continue to be a source of inspiration, even for rookie players like Macklin Celebrini, who keep a keen eye on MacKinnon’s gameplay to improve their own.
This season, MacKinnon has totaled 27 goals and 73 assists, curating his third consecutive 100-point season — an achievement previously matched by Stastny over six seasons. Approaching his 1,000-point milestone with goals and assists tallying 362 and 637, respectively, he is poised to be the first from his draft class to do so. The closest contender, Aleksander Barkov, trails with 771 points. MacKinnon’s prowess is particularly prominent on home grounds, where he’s maintained a streak of 19 consecutive games with points.
Teammate Jonathan Drouin calls attention to MacKinnon’s consistent performance, stating that his extraordinary capabilities have become a standard expectation amongst them. Meanwhile, outside observers, including those watching infrequently, are often left in awe of his talent. Reflecting on MacKinnon’s career, teammates foresee a special legacy that will only become more evident with time.
Training together during the offseason, hockey star Sidney Crosby bears witness to MacKinnon’s dedication firsthand, describing his drive as a relentless pursuit of personal betterment. Crosby, who competed alongside MacKinnon in international tournaments, admires his hard work, believing it deserving of the 1,000-point milestone.
MacKinnon’s determination and excellence inspire those around him. Avalanche goaltender Scott Wedgewood commented on how MacKinnon’s presence uplifts the entire team, bringing out the best in everyone and raising the team’s performance level by expecting the highest standards from himself. Having him on their side, Wedgewood noted, is a significant advantage, compared to facing him as an opponent.
