DENVER, CO – Nathan MacKinnon achieved a historic milestone on March 10, 2025, becoming the 100th player in NHL history to reach 1,000 career points. The Colorado Avalanche celebrated this achievement with authority, defeating the Chicago Blackhawks 3-0 during their sixth consecutive win at home. This victory capped off a perfect 6-0-0 homestand and showcased the Avalanche's depth and resilience.
MacKinnon, who has emerged as one of the league's premier players, secured his milestone shortly after the beginning of the third period. Within just 31 seconds, he assisted on Artturi Lehkonen's goal, marking his 1,000th point. The goal came from MacKinnon dropping the puck to Devon Toews at the right point, whose shot was deflected by Lehkonen. The celebration was electric, as his teammates rushed to congratulate him on this significant achievement.
"It’s cool. It’s a lot of fun to accomplish something with friends and teammates. Yeah, I don’t know. It’s a (big) number. It’s a cool milestone, for sure," MacKinnon said, displaying his humility and team-oriented mindset after the game.
Following Lehkonen's opener, just under three minutes had passed when MacKinnon struck again, this time assisting Martin Necas, who scored his 22nd goal of the season. The Avalanche quickly found themselves leading 2-0, and MacKinnon had firmly placed his mark on the game, notching his 1,001st career point. He now leads the league this season with 102 points, emphasizing his phenomenal performance as he continues to shine as one of the elite players.
Scott Wedgewood was stellar between the pipes for Colorado, turning away 20 shots to secure his second shutout of the season and eighth of his career. His performance included multiple highlight-reel saves, providing the team with the confidence and stability they needed on the ice.
The Avalanche had not only MacKinnon’s milestone to celebrate but also Joel Kiviranta’s empty-netter, scored with just under a minute left, solidifying the victory. Kiviranta’s goal was notable as it tied the NHL record for the most empty-net goals scored in a season, which now stands at 24. This achievement tied the record set by the Winnipeg Jets last season and Dallas' 2015-16 team.
Despite enduring some close calls and penalty challenges throughout the game, including two big saves by Wedgewood to thwart potential scoring opportunities from the Blackhawks, Colorado played well as they remained disciplined. Chicago struggled on the power play, failing to capitalize during their opportunities, including a significant two-man advantage midway through the second period when Colorado was penalized for two infractions within seconds of each other.
The Blackhawks, who have had their fair share of challenges throughout the season, could not convert on their chances and have now lost eight of their last eleven games, with this defeat marking their first shutout of the season. Spencer Knight, the Chicago goaltender, finished with 18 saves but faced constant pressure from the Avalanche offense, especially as the game progressed.
The first period ended with the teams scoreless, but there was no shortage of action or scoring chances. Both teams exchanged chances early on, with MacKinnon initially appearing to register his 1,000th point after assisting Necas on what was deemed a legitimate goal. Unfortunately for him, it was later overturned following a successful offside challenge from the Blackhawks, making for some tension and anticipation on the ice.
Erik Johnson made his return to the Avalanche lineup after being reacquired through trade just before the deadline. His presence was greatly welcomed by the fans, who gave him loud cheers as he took the ice for his first shift of the game, adding another layer of excitement to the already thrilling atmosphere at Ball Arena.
With the win, the Avalanche have positioned themselves firmly as contenders, sitting four points above the Minnesota Wild for third place in the Central Division. They will face the Wild again shortly, which will be another significant matchup as they look to solidify their playoff position.
Head coach Jared Bednar complimented his team’s effort, expressing satisfaction with their performance during the homestand. “Productive,” Bednar stated when asked about the recent stretch. “We played pretty good hockey. There was just one game against Pittsburgh I didn’t love, but I like the way we responded.”
Looking forward, the Avalanche will seek to build on their momentum against the Minnesota Wild on Tuesday night, March 11, 2025, as they aim to complete their push for the playoffs and continue their success following a historical night for MacKinnon and his teammates.