Nathan MacKinnon hits 1,100 points (Image via: Getty Images) Nathan MacKinnon keeps finding new ways to define Colorado’s season, even when milestones are not his focus. On Monday night at Ball Arena, the Avalanche leaned on their top line and timely execution to steady themselves after a brief dip, dispatching the Washington Capitals 5-2 in a controlled, mature performance.The result mattered beyond the standings. Colorado responded after two straight losses, while MacKinnon quietly crossed another historic mark, reaching 1,100 NHL points with a dominant three-point night that set the tone from start to finish.
Nathan MacKinnon becomes 70th NHL player to reach 1,100 points
MacKinnon scored twice and added an assist, driving Colorado’s offense with his usual blend of pace and precision. Reflecting on his milestone, he said, “I want to play well, feel good. I want to help the team. In my mind, it could go away any day, so I’m not enjoying [any milestones] right now.” His first goal came on the power play midway through the second period, cutting through Washington’s coverage before snapping a wrist shot past Charlie Lindgren to restore the Avalanche lead.Parker Kelly opened the scoring early by redirecting a Cale Makar point shot, but Washington answered through Jakob Chychrun’s power-play goal. From there, Colorado dictated play in layers. Victor Olofsson extended the lead late in the second period by converting a rebound, and although Ethen Frank responded just seconds later for the Capitals, the Avalanche never appeared rattled.Scott Wedgewood’s 22-save effort provided calm support at the other end, while Colorado’s skaters controlled the neutral zone and limited Washington’s transition looks. The Avalanche absorbed pressure when needed, then punished mistakes, a theme that resurfaced late in the third period.After Makar had a goal overturned following a successful goaltender interference challenge, Colorado stayed patient. Artturi Lehkonen made it 4-2 by finishing a clean two-on-one created by MacKinnon’s puck theft along the boards. MacKinnon then sealed the game with his second goal, converting Martin Necas’ feed from the slot to put the outcome beyond doubt.Colorado coach Jared Bednar praised the group’s mentality and commitment, particularly after navigating penalty trouble and an unusual pregame absence. Valeri Nichushkin was held out as a precaution following a minor car accident, a disruption the Avalanche handled without losing structure.For Washington, the loss marked a third straight defeat. Despite Lindgren’s 39 saves and competitive play through two periods, the Capitals struggled to generate sustained pressure late, a point echoed by both Spencer Carbery and Dylan Strome.As Colorado moves forward, the win was more about regaining momentum than individual milestones. MacKinnon may downplay his achievements, but nights like this show why the Avalanche remain a team to watch in the league.