Feature Photo: Getty Images
The numbers, though impressive, are not the only measure of Nathan MacKinnon’s success.
When it comes to the Ted Lindsay Award – presented annually to “the most outstanding player in the NHL,” as voted by fellow NHLPA members – it’s no surprise to see the 29-year-old, who received his first TLA last year, is once again among the finalists.
For his Colorado Avalanche teammates, MacKinnon’s place on the shortlist feels inevitable.
In fact, it’s exactly where his teammates expected him to be.
“It’s Nate’s dedication to his craft that is most impressive to me,” said Avalanche defenceman Devon Toews. “His ability to change the flow of a game with his speed and vision is second to none.”
A four-time TLA finalist (also 2017-18, 2019-20, 2023-24), MacKinnon would become the first player to receive the award in back-to-back seasons since Connor McDavid (2016-17, 2017-18). Last season, he became just the second player in Avalanche history to receive the award, joining Hockey Hall of Fame inductee Joe Sakic (2000-01).
MacKinnon’s 2024-25 campaign was another testament to his elite play, consistency and drive. In his 79 regular-season games, he recorded his third consecutive 100-point season, finishing second in league scoring with 116 points. The Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia, native also became just the 12th player in NHL history to register three straight 110-point seasons and led all centres in scoring.
MacKinnon also shared the league lead in assists (84), led the league in shots (320) and all forwards in average ice time (22:47) while ranking fourth in points per game (1.47).
Veteran forward Charlie Coyle, who joined Colorado in March via a trade with the Boston Bruins, quickly felt the impact of sharing the ice with MacKinnon after years of trying to stop him on it.
The forward also had plenty of first-hand experience playing against MacKinnon when the former was a member of the Avs’ division rival, the Minnesota Wild.
“Toughest part about playing against him was just trying to contain him because of his speed and explosiveness,” said Coyle. “But trying to defend him on the power play was almost impossible. He can beat you in so many ways.”
For MacKinnon, performance is fueled by more than talent – it's his relentless will to win.
“Nate hates to lose,” said the 31-year-old Toews. “He pushes himself and everyone around him to learn and get better every day. He has a commitment to finding new tools to add to his skillset which is why he is such a good teammate and leader.”
Coyle saw those top-shelf leadership qualities translate to the locker room immediately after arriving in Colorado.
“When I got traded, he reached out over the phone and sent me a nice message. Something little like a text or call is nice to help you feel welcome right away.”
Once settled in, Coyle quickly noticed what others across the league already knew: MacKinnon’s work ethic is next level.
“I admire his drive and commitment to his craft. He’s all in on how he takes care of himself and his preparation to be able to perform like he does every day and night.”
MacKinnon is joined by teammate Cale Makar and the Tampa Bay Lightning’s Nikita Kucherov as a 2024-25 finalist. Another TLA on the trophy shelf would only reinforce what his peers and fans alike already understand – he belongs among the game’s most exceptional.
“Every player I grew up idolizing has their name on these things,” MacKinnon said after receiving his first TLA in 2023-24. “So, to be a part of that company is surreal. It hasn't really sunk in and it's a special thing.”
That feeling might never fully set in, but as Toews noted, MacKinnon doesn’t rest on accolades.
“Nate understands what he needs to do on a day-to-day basis to allow himself to be great when the lights are brightest.”
