Nathan MacKinnon of the Colorado Avalanche made history on March 10, 2025, by becoming the 100th player in NHL history to reach the remarkable milestone of 1,000 career points. The feat was achieved during the Avalanche’s 3-0 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks at Ball Arena, where MacKinnon’s contributions proved pivotal.
Initially, Avalanche fans were treated to what appeared to be MacKinnon’s milestone achievement when he recorded the 1,000th point with the first-period assist. His teammates rushed onto the ice to celebrate, only for the excitement to be short-lived as the goal was disallowed due to an offside review. Yet, the Colorado star persisted and eventually reached the milestone merely 31 seconds after the start of the third period.
MacKinnon assisted on Artturi Lehkonen's goal, which broke the scoreless tie, setting the stage for his celebration. “It was tough when they disallowed it for sure,” MacKinnon reflected after the game. “It was kind of funny honestly. They had to come out again. Obviously I appreciate their support and wouldn’t be here without them.”
But MacKinnon wasn’t done there. Just minutes later, he also assisted on Martin Necas' goal, wrapping up the night with two assists and reinforcing the fact he was having one of the most dominant seasons yet. Currently leading the NHL with 102 points, MacKinnon is also the first player from the 2013 draft class to achieve the 1,000-point mark, setting the bar higher for his contemporaries.
This significant achievement aligns MacKinnon with legendary players from Avalanche history, namely Joe Sakic and Peter Stastny, making him the third player from this franchise to reach the impressive milestone. Sakic finished his illustrious career with 1,641 points and Stastny with 1,048 points, big targets for MacKinnon as he continues his career at just 29 years of age.
Designed for greatness, MacKinnon displays consistency and determination. He has been integral to the Avalanche’s success, credited not only with individual accolades—he is the reigning Hart Trophy winner—but also team triumph, having contributed to Colorado's 2022 Stanley Cup victory.
Entering this season, MacKinnon already amassed 362 goals and 639 assists over his career, showcasing his remarkable skillset. With six more seasons left on his current contract, there’s speculation as to whether he could surpass Sakic before calling it quits, especially as his current form suggests he’s only getting started.
His 20th consecutive home game yielding at least one point signifies MacKinnon’s remarkable talent and consistency, providing Avalanche fans plenty of reason to celebrate during the remaining regular season. “Been here for a long time, had some of the best teammates to ever play,” MacKinnon noted. “Pretty fortunate. Obviously it’s a cool milestone, but it’s over now, and look forward to tomorrow night.”
With MacKinnon leading the charge, the Avalanche are currently positioned third in the Central Division with their 39-24-2 record following the win over Chicago. The Victoria, British Columbia native’s contributions play not just to individual glory but also to the team’s aspirations of capturing another championship. Next up, the Avalanche will face the Minnesota Wild, with all eyes on MacKinnon as he continues to chase more remarkable achievements.
This milestone not only cements MacKinnon’s place among hockey’s greats but also raises anticipation among fans and analysts alike about what the future holds for the talented forward.