Colorado Avalanche star Nathan MacKinnon said the team’s standard remains a Stanley Cup — and not just the one the group captured in 2022.
“It feels like we’re more solidified, but there’s no wondering; there are no holes in our lineup,” MacKinnon said during Wednesday’s season-opening media availability. “The playoffs are a long way away, so we have to enjoy this grind coming up. But we can build our game to where it needs to be and make it as perfect as possible throughout the season.”
“You don’t want to win just one with this group we have with the talent and the great pieces. If we only got one, it would be tough. Looking to have a great season, and the goal is to win.”
Avalanche superstar Nathan MacKinnon makes it clear that one Stanley Cup isn’t enough for him. Great answer here as he’s hungry for another championship. pic.twitter.com/NF12inAfoE
— Will Petersen (@PetersenWill) September 17, 2025
The Avalanche have been bounced from the playoffs in each of the last three years rather early. In the last two years, the Avs finished in third place in their division, backing MacKinnon’s message that the regular season has meaning.
MacKinnon’s comments are also interesting as a bunch of Avs boasted about the team’s depth, a place where the team has struggled, particularly up front, since hoisting the banner. This offseason was not a winner, according to many, yet the best player on the team is at least publicly stating that one of the issues seems to be fixed.
Despite the recent playoff failures and lack of inspiration some may feel about recent roster moves, the Avs still are tied for the second-best odds to win the Stanley Cup next summer at +800. That’s a spot they’ve been for years, because of the tremendous talent they have, as MacKinnon said.
