DENVER — The Chicago Blackhawks’ five-game point streak came to a screeching halt as they fell to the Colorado Avalanche 3-0 on March 10, 2025. Though the final score reflects defeat, the Blackhawks' young roster put up a commendable effort against one of the league's top teams.
The game didn't start smoothly for Colorado, as Nathan MacKinnon thought he had scored his 1,000th NHL point with a first-period assist on Martin Necas’s goal. The celebration was cut short when Chicago challenged the play for offside, resulting in the goal being disallowed after a lengthy review. Nevertheless, the atmosphere was electric, with fans eager to witness MacKinnon’s milestones.
Moving to the second period, Chicago received a major opportunity with a two-man advantage for 1:52. Unfortunately, the Blackhawks couldn't capitalize, only generating two shots on goal during the advantageous situation. This missed chance would loom large as the game progressed.
MacKinnon finally hit the milestone he had been chasing when he assisted on Artturi Lehkonen’s goal early in the third period, making him the 16th player in NHL history to score 1,000 points before turning 30. "Every time you get to those landmarks, it’s exciting," MacKinnon stated, reflecting on not just his accomplishments but how he finds joy also in setting up teammates.
Just three minutes later, the Avalanche doubled their lead when Martin Necas capitalized on Spencer Knight’s miscue, scoring his first goal of the night, which had been initially ruled out. Joel Kiviranta sealed the game with a late empty-net goal, ensuring Colorado’s victory.
On the ice, Blackhawks rookie Artyom Levshunov made his highly-anticipated NHL debut, following his recall from the Rockford IceHogs. The second overall pick from the 2024 draft showcased his potential, logging 20:55 of ice time, with three shots on goal and two blocked attempts. “I was dreaming of this moment all my hockey life,” Levshunov remarked, reflecting on his debut. Interim head coach Anders Sorensen expressed confidence going forward, stating, "Let’s get after it. It’s the NHL, right?"
“He held up quite well,” noted fellow rookie Connor Bedard, referencing Levshunov's resilience on the ice against seasoned veterans like MacKinnon and Cale Makar. Levshunov acknowledged he went right after it against opponents of such caliber.
The game marked the return of Jason Dickinson, who had been sidelined for 11 games due to a high ankle sprain. Playing alongside Bedard, the line produced four scoring chances at 5-on-5 but struggled defensively, allowing five. Dickinson’s return was mixed, and he noted the Blackhawks' effort but lamented missed opportunities. Meanwhile, Alec Martinez exited the game after just 3:23 due to injury, leaving Chicago with limited defensive options.
The power play was another hurdle for the Blackhawks, ending the night 0-for-4. After spending much of the season near the top of the league rankings for power-play efficiency, their recent struggles have raised concerns—over the last three games, they've failed to convert on eight opportunities.
Meanwhile, MacKinnon’s achievements throughout his illustrious career were on full display. The star forward has now played 855 games with the Avalanche, ranking fourth all-time for the franchise. Notably, he is only 32 assists away from passing Peter Stastny for third place on the team's all-time assists list and is just 48 points away from overtaking him for second place overall. While his accolades are numerous—ranging from the Hart Trophy to the Calder Memorial Trophy—many, including Avs fans and analysts alike, speculate he is destined for the Hockey Hall of Fame, provided he maintains his performance as his career progresses.
“I’m grateful every time he steps on the ice,” one Avalanche fan noted, emphasizing MacKinnon’s importance to the team. With his contract locked until 2031, the team hopes to continue to surround him with talent as they chase another Stanley Cup.
Despite the disappointing result, the Blackhawks are focused on growth and learning through adversity. Team captain Nick Foligno commented post-game, indicating improvement: "The guys are playing to grow something here." His statement hints at the resolve and potential of the younger players, including Levshunov and Bedard, to turn their present struggles around.
The Avalanche are currently cruising, finding themselves six points behind the Dallas Stars, who sit second place in their division, making Tuesday's game against the Minnesota Wild pivotal. Colorado's current six-game winning streak is fueled by teamwork and explosive offensive plays, characteristics highlighted by MacKinnon’s unselfish play this season.
If both teams learn from this matchup and build on their experiences, fans can expect plenty of engaging hockey as the season progresses. For the Blackhawks, improvement on special teams and stronger defensive play will be central, whereas the Avalanche will look to maintain their momentum and continue to witness MacKinnon’s ascent through the NHL ranks.