As the 2024-25 NHL regular season reaches its three-quarter mark, NHL.com has released its third Trophy Tracker report, this time focusing on the prestigious Hart Trophy, awarded to the league’s most valuable player as voted by the Professional Hockey Writers Association. Nathan MacKinnon, the dynamic forward for the Colorado Avalanche, has emerged as the leading candidate to win the award for the second consecutive year, solidifying his status as one of the most dominant players in hockey today.
MacKinnon’s consistency this season has been nothing short of remarkable. He leads the NHL with 102 points (27 goals and 75 assists) in 67 games, showcasing his elite playmaking and scoring abilities.
His season began with a spectacular 13-game point streak, and his dominance at home is undeniable, with an active 20-game home point streak. Recently, MacKinnon reached a historic milestone, becoming the 100th player in NHL history to record 1,000 career points.
Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar highlighted MacKinnon’s impact with a specific example from their game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on March 4. MacKinnon’s involvement was crucial in driving the team’s success. “If you’re prepared and ready to compete like that for 60 minutes, a guy with his talent and ability is going to get something done,” Bednar said, per NHL.com.
Head coach Jared Bednar of the Colorado Avalanche looks on against the Chicago Blackhawks during the first period at the United Center on January 08, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
MacKinnon: The Avalanche’s driving force through adversity
MacKinnon’s influence extends far beyond his impressive statistics. His ability to lead the Avalanche through adversity, including injuries and changes in goal, has been instrumental to the team’s success. “I think you look at the adversity that our team’s faced with injuries,” Bednar said, “and just the number of guys that we’ve had in the lineup, the fight we’ve been in—a lot of the credit should go to those top guys and the consistent seasons they’re having, and Nate’s certainly driving that bus again this year.”
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Hart Trophy competition heats up
MacKinnon’s consistency, leadership, and ability to elevate his team’s performance make him the clear favorite for the Hart Trophy. His impact on the Avalanche, especially amid challenges, is undeniable.
As the NHL season progresses, MacKinnon continues to demonstrate why he is considered one of the best players in the world, and his Hart Trophy candidacy only grows stronger with each game.
