MacKinnon sparks buzz with unexpected season forecast for Avalanche
Photo credit: Aniello Piro / Denver Sports
Nathan MacKinnon has stunned fans and analysts alike by making a bold declaration about what he expects from the Colorado Avalanche in the 2025-26 season, signalling high stakes and setting the tone for what could be a pivotal year for the team.
MacKinnon spoke to the media during Wednesday's season-opening media availability.
MacKinnon is not satisfied with one Stanley Cup.
Jake Shapiro from Denver Sports writes that the Avalanche superstar stated that the team's goal remains winning the Stanley Cup, and not just repeating the success of their 2022 championship.
«It feels like we're more solidified, but there's no wondering; there are no holes in our lineup. 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.» -MacKinnon
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.» -MacKinnon
The Avalanche have suffered early playoff exits in each of the past three seasons. Finishing third in their division over the last two years reinforces MacKinnon's point that every regular-season game carries significance.
"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." -Shapiro
Even with recent playoff disappointments and questions surrounding roster changes, the Avalanche remain tied for the second-best odds to win next summer's Stanley Cup at +800, a position they've consistently held thanks to their exceptional talent, as MacKinnon noted.
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SEPTEMBRE 19 | 28 ANSWERS MacKinnon sparks buzz with unexpected season forecast for Avalanche Do you think Colorado has a team that can compete for a Stanley Cup this upcoming season? | ||
| yes | 26 | 92.9 % |
| no | 2 | 7.1 % |
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