DENVER — Nathan MacKinnon scored two goals to become the 114th player in NHL history to reach 400 career goals, leading the Colorado Avalanche to a dominant 6-1 win over the St. Louis Blues at Ball Arena as 2025 came to a close. MacKinnon also set a franchise record by being the first Avalanche/Nordiques player to tally 70 points in fewer than 40 games this season.
The game quickly transformed into a one-sided affair reminiscent of an Olympic-level showdown. Valeri Nichushkin notched his second career regular-season hat trick, while Brock Nelson contributed a goal. Colorado jumped out to a quick lead against St. Louis goalie Jordan Binnington, scoring four times in just over four minutes. Despite being chosen for Team Canada’s Olympic roster, Binnington struggled, finishing with six goals against on 43 shots, including four goals early on. Mackenzie Blackwood, Binnington’s Olympic replacement, stopped 12 shots.
Dalibor Dvorsky scored the lone goal for the Blues, but Colorado maintained control, extending their winning streak to nine games overall and 15 at home. Nichushkin opened the scoring one minute into the game, assisted by Artturi Lehkonen, and MacKinnon’s milestone 400th goal came shortly after, followed quickly by his 401st. The Avalanche consistently pressured Binnington, who faced heavy criticism following his Olympic selection.
The Avalanche continued to dominate through the second period, with Brock Nelson adding a fifth goal on the power play. St. Louis attempted to respond on the penalty kill but failed to gain momentum. In the third period, Dvorsky scored for the Blues, but Nichushkin sealed the game with a third goal, completing his hat trick and securing a 6-1 victory.
Gavin Brindley sustained a minor upper-body injury late in the game and is currently under evaluation. The Avalanche will kick off 2026 at home against the Carolina Hurricanes, with an interview scheduled at 5 p.m. local time.
Fan Take: MacKinnon’s 400-goal milestone and the Avalanche’s commanding performance underscore their position as a powerhouse this season, thrilling fans with their dominance. This success not only boosts team morale but also elevates excitement for hockey’s future, showcasing elite talent at its best.
