Nathan MacKinnon dominated the NHL scoring race, threatening to accomplish something hockey hadn't witnessed since the 1990s.
What Happened?
The Colorado Avalanche superstar produced one of the most dominant offensive displays of the season, exploding for four goals and five assists for nine points across back-to-back games against the Edmonton Oilers and Vancouver Canucks in early November.
He sat atop the NHL with 14 goals and 29 points at that point.
Elite Production
MacKinnon's early production projected to an astonishing 72 goals, 77 assists, and 149 points, numbers rarely associated with the modern NHL.
He finished the season with 52 goals and 74 assists for 127 points.
The Avalanche endured a disappointing finish after being swept by the Vegas Golden Knights.
Impact on the Team
MacKinnon's value extends far beyond the scoresheet, forcing opposing defenses into uncomfortable situations with his speed and relentless attack mentality.
He sets the standard for the rest of the roster every night.
And his competitiveness has become one of the defining characteristics of Colorado's identity.
But MacKinnon continued to deliver, recording 15 points and seven goals in 13 games during the Avalanche's disappointing playoff run.
So when he exited Game 4 against Vegas because of injury, Colorado's offense immediately lost much of its explosiveness.
What Comes Next?
A Triple Crown ultimately slipped away, but the pursuit itself underscored just how dominant MacKinnon was throughout the season.
He once again established himself among the NHL’s premier players.
The franchise's outlook remains remarkably simple: as long as Nathan MacKinnon is leading the charge, the Avalanche will continue to enter every season with legitimate Stanley Cup expectations.
And few players in hockey give a team a better chance to chase them.
MacKinnon earned the Maurice Rocket Richard Trophy as the NHL's leading goal scorer.
He posted the second-highest point total of his career.
The Avalanche will look to bounce back from their disappointing playoff exit.
MacKinnon will be a key factor in their success.