MacKinnon’s Five-Point Performance Secures Avalanche’s Overtime Win Over Canucks

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MacKinnon’s Five-Point Performance Secures Avalanche’s Overtime Win Over Canucks

In an exhilarating overtime match, Nathan MacKinnon showcased an outstanding performance, contributing to the Colorado Avalanche’s victory over the Vancouver Canucks. MacKinnon tallied five points with two goals and three assists, solidifying his position as one of the NHL’s top players.

Overtime Thrills: Avalanche vs. Canucks

The game moved into overtime after Vancouver’s Jake DeBrusk redirected a power-play pass from Brock Boeser with just 3:01 left in regulation. The Avalanche initially held a 3-2 lead thanks to Artturi Lehkonen, who scored twice in the third period, including a power-play goal.

Key Players and Performances

  • Nathan MacKinnon: Scored two goals, including a power-play goal, and added three assists.
  • Artturi Lehkonen: Contributed two goals for Colorado.
  • Valeri Nichushkin: Notched two assists during the game.
  • Cale Makar: Added two assists, enhancing his season total to 21 points.
  • Jake DeBrusk: Scored the tying goal for Vancouver.
  • Kevin Lankinen: Stopped 27 shots for the Canucks.
  • Mackenzie Blackwood: Made 29 saves for the Avalanche.

Match Overview

Both teams entered the game with momentum. Vancouver had recently defeated the Columbus Blue Jackets 4-3, while Colorado delivered a dominating 9-1 win against the Edmonton Oilers. The Avalanche’s 10-1-5 record currently leads the league, with coach Jared Bednar achieving his 400th career win, becoming the 42nd NHL coach to reach this milestone.

Lehkonen’s first goal came just 28 seconds into the third period, lifting Colorado to a 3-2 lead. The Canucks answered back when Kiefer Sherwood scored his team-leading 10th goal of the season after a defensive turnover.

MacKinnon’s Historic Night

This remarkable performance pushed Nathan MacKinnon’s career total to 381 goals, moving him past Peter Stastny to claim third place on Colorado’s all-time goals list. Only hockey legends Joe Sakic and Michel Goulet have more goals for the franchise. Currently, MacKinnon leads the NHL in scoring with 29 points and 14 goals, underlining his tremendous impact on the ice.

Upcoming Matches

Looking ahead, the Colorado Avalanche will host the Anaheim Ducks, while the Vancouver Canucks will face the Winnipeg Jets. Both teams are eager to build on their recent successes as the season progresses.