MacKinnon shatters Avalanche points record in 4-1 win over Kings
When Nathan MacKinnon, center of the Colorado Avalanche, recorded his 1,016th career point, he instantly became the franchise’s all‑time leader, surpassing the legendary Joe Sakic. The milestone happened on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California, as the Avalanche rolled to a 4‑1 victory over the Los Angeles Kings. Avalanche points record was sealed with a primary assist on Martin Nečas’s second goal just 48 seconds into the second period, while goaltender Scott Wedgewood turned aside 24 shots.
Game recap: Avalanche dominate from the opening face‑off
The opening period saw both teams trading face‑offs, but Colorado quickly asserted control. Sam Malinski snapped a quick goal for the Avalanche, setting the tone. By the end of the first, the Avs led 2‑0 thanks to Martin Nečas’s first tally, a crisp wrist‑shot from the left circle.
Los Angeles’ lone goal arrived midway through the second period when Kevin Fiala slipped a shot past Scott Wedgewood. The Kings, however, could not muster enough pressure; Colorado’s defensive corps, led by Cale Makar, patched up the gaps and added two assists.
MacKinnon’s record‑breaking assist and career context
MacKinnon’s primary assist on Nečas’ second goal was more than a stat line – it was the culmination of a six‑year stretch that saw him climb steadily past the 900‑point plateau. At 367 career goals and 649 assists, his 1,016 points came in just 871 games, edging Sakic’s 1,015 points, which had been amassed over 870 games.
While Sakic still holds the overall franchise crown with 1,641 points (including his Nordiques years), MacKinnon’s trajectory suggests he could eclipse that mark within the next two seasons if health stays on his side. "He’s a guy that can score from distance and he seems to get in there a lot," Jared Bednar, the Avalanche’s head coach, said after the game. "You know, I see him as a goal scorer and I think he needs a good balance of shooting the puck today."
Gabriel Landeskog’s long‑awaited return
Captain Gabriel Landeskog finally stepped onto the ice for his first regular‑season opener since March 10, 2022. The 32‑year‑old, who missed the majority of the last two campaigns with a knee injury and subsequent surgeries, logged 11:12 of ice time, won five of seven face‑offs and logged a single shot on goal. His presence added a physical edge that Bednar praised, noting that the Avs “played a good physical game” and that Landeskog’s leadership helped keep the Kings on their heels.
Landeskog’s earlier playoff return on April 23, 2025, against the Dallas Stars saw him contribute four points in five games, but the Avalanche fell in Game 7. This season‑opening appearance signals that the captain is back to full strength, a boost that could prove pivotal in a tightly contested Western Conference.
Coach Bednar on the physicality and game plan
Beyond the numbers, Bednar highlighted the Avalanche’s willingness to mix skill with swagger. He pointed to a game‑changing hit by defenseman Josh Manson that slowed a Kings rush in the third period. "It was a good physical game from us... I’m okay with the guys acting on it," Bednar remarked.
The coach also praised the balanced attack – from MacKinnon’s speed to Nečas’ finishing and Makar’s playmaking – saying the team “ripped it up” in training camp and showed it on the ice.
Implications for the Avalanche and the Kings
With the win, the Avalanche sit atop the Western Conference standings and have set a tone that could echo throughout the season. The record‑breaking moment underscores a broader narrative: Colorado is morphing from a team that won three Cups (1996, 2001, 2022) into a powerhouse that could chase a fourth.
For Los Angeles, the loss marks a sobering start to what will be Anže Kopitar’s 20th and final NHL season. The veteran’s 20‑year tenure has been a beacon for the franchise, but the Kings will need to rally quickly if they hope to make the playoffs.
Next up, Colorado hosts the Vegas Golden Knights on October 10, 2025, at its home arena, Ball Arena in Denver. The Kings, meanwhile, welcome the Anaheim Ducks on October 9 at Crypto.com Arena.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does MacKinnon’s new points record affect his standing in the league?
Surpassing Joe Sakic makes MacKinnon the Avalanche’s all‑time points leader, boosting his Hall of Fame résumé and positioning him as a contender for the league’s scoring title this season, especially if he maintains his current pace of roughly 1.2 points per game.
What impact does Gabriel Landeskog’s return have on Colorado’s defense?
Landeskog brings veteran size and a gritty edge to the blue line. His ability to win face‑offs and engage physically helps the Avalanche protect leads, and his presence should ease the transition for younger defensemen like Makar and Manson.
Why is this season significant for Anže Kopitar?
The 2025‑26 campaign is Kopitar’s 20th and final year in the NHL. He aims to finish his career on a high note, possibly guiding the Kings into the playoffs for a farewell run, while also mentoring the team’s younger talent.
How might the Avalanche’s early success influence their strategy against the Golden Knights?
A strong start gives Bednar flexibility to experiment with line combinations and power‑play setups. Against a high‑scoring Golden Knights squad, Colorado may lean more on its defensive discipline while still capitalizing on MacKinnon’s offensive firepower.
What does the Kings’ performance suggest about their outlook this year?
A 4‑1 loss in the opener highlights defensive lapses that need fixing. With a veteran core aging, the Kings must rely on emerging players like Fiala and Byfield to step up if they hope to stay competitive in the Pacific Division.
Write a comment