MacKinnon Drops Gloves in Thrilling 8-4 Avs Season Opener

The Colorado Avalanche began their 2026-27 season with a resounding 8-4 victory against the Los Angeles Kings, marked by an uncharacteristic display from star forward Nathan MacKinnon. MacKinnon dropped the gloves and won a fight in the third period, later scoring two goals as part of the Avalanche's potent offensive output. Colorado's power play was particularly effective, scoring four times, with three of those goals coming from the second unit. Goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood made 26 saves to seal the win. Last season's leading scorer, MacKinnon, continued his high-level play, netting his first goal just 23 seconds into the second period. The team also saw contributions from Artturi Lehkonen, who scored twice, and newcomer Jaden Schwartz. Despite allowing two shorthanded goals, a weakness from the previous season, the Avs demonstrated strong offensive capabilities and special teams success. The team also announced a four-year contract extension for coach Jared Bednar. Forwards Logan O'Connor and Zachary L'Heureux were sidelined with lower-body injuries.