Avalanche’s Nathan MacKinnon Named Hart Trophy Finalist

For the fifth time in his career, Nathan MacKinnon is a finalist for the NHL’s most prestigious individual honor. The league announced Friday that the Colorado Avalanche forward is one of three finalists for the 2025-26 Hart Memorial Trophy, awarded annually to the player judged most valuable to his team. Joining MacKinnon on the finalist list are Tampa Bay Lightning’s Nikita Kucherov and Edmonton Oilers’ Connor McDavid.

The nomination caps off another spectacular season for MacKinnon, who once again established himself as one of the NHL’s most dominant and complete players. After winning his first Hart Trophy during the 2023-24 season, MacKinnon now has an opportunity to join the league’s elite with a second MVP award.

Another Historic Season for MacKinnon

MacKinnon delivered arguably the best goal-scoring season of his career during the 2025-26 regular season campaign. The 30-year-old finished with a career-high 53 goals and added 74 assists for 127 points, helping lead the Avalanche to a Presidents’ Trophy-winning season.

While McDavid ultimately captured the Art Ross Trophy as the league’s points leader, MacKinnon still finished among the NHL’s offensive elite and claimed the Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy as the league’s top goal scorer.

What made MacKinnon’s season especially impressive was how dominant he was at even strength. He led the NHL with 97 even-strength points, a remarkable total that highlighted his ability to control games without relying heavily on power-play production.

Night after night, MacKinnon remained the driving force behind Colorado’s offense. His explosive speed, relentless puck pursuit, and improved finishing ability made him nearly impossible to contain. Even in a league overflowing with superstar talent, he consistently stood out as one of hockey’s most dangerous players.

Leading Colorado to the Presidents’ Trophy

Beyond the individual numbers, MacKinnon’s value to the Avalanche was undeniable. Colorado finished the regular season with a franchise-record 121 points and secured the Presidents’ Trophy as the NHL’s top regular-season team.

The Avalanche battled through injuries and lineup changes throughout the season, but MacKinnon remained the steady heartbeat of the team. Whether producing offense in key moments or setting the tone with his intensity and competitiveness, he elevated Colorado into legitimate Stanley Cup contention once again.

Cementing His Legacy

At this point in his career, MacKinnon’s greatness is no longer debated — it’s expected. Every season, he finds new ways to evolve and push his game to another level.

While the competition is undeniably tough, MacKinnon’s combination of elite goal scoring and dominant all-around play gives him a legitimate chance to take home the trophy for a second time.

Being named a Hart Trophy finalist for the fifth time further reinforces his status as one of the defining players of his era. More importantly, it reflects the consistency that separates true superstars from short-term standouts.

Whether or not MacKinnon ultimately wins the award, his 2025-26 season will be remembered as another masterpiece in an already remarkable career.