What happened: Nathan MacKinnon scored his second goal of the night to open the 2026-27 season in Denver. The tally stretched Colorado's advantage to two goals in a game carried on TNT.
Why it matters: Colorado entered the night as the reigning Presidents' Trophy winners. An early multi-goal cushion sets the opening tone for the 2026-27 campaign.
By the numbers: MacKinnon: 2 goals. Avalanche lead: 2 goals. Avalanche power play: three goals through two periods.
What to watch: Watch whether Colorado holds the two-goal margin through the third period to close the opener.