Avalanche’s Nathan MacKinnon Named Hart Trophy Final – Hockey Writers – Colorado Avalanche

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 the winners of the 2025-26 Hart Memorial Trophy, which is awarded annually to the player judged to be the most valuable to his team. Joining MacKinnon on the list of winners are Nikita Kucherov of the Tampa Bay Lightning and Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers.

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

Another Historic Moment for MacKinnon

MacKinnon delivered arguably the best 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 President’s Trophy winning season.

While McDavid ended up holding the Art Ross Trophy as the league’s scoring leader, MacKinnon still finished among the NHL’s offensive teams and claimed the Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy as the league’s leading scorer.

What made MacKinnon’s season so impressive was how strong he was. He led the NHL with a solid 97 points, an impressive number that highlights his ability to control games without relying too much on power play production.

Each night, MacKinnon was left running Colorado’s offense. His explosive speed, relentless pursuit of the puck, and improved finishing skills made him nearly impossible to catch. Even in a league overflowing with celebrity talent, he always stood out as one of hockey’s most dangerous players.

Leading Colorado to the Presidents’ Trophy

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

The Avalanche dealt with injuries and roster changes throughout the season, but MacKinnon remained the strong heartbeat of the team. Whether he’s producing offense in key moments or setting the tone with his intensity and competitiveness, he’s lifted Colorado into legitimate Stanley Cup contention once again.

Strengthening His Legacy

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

While the competition is undeniably tough, MacKinnon’s combination of elite scoring and outstanding 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 cements his status as one of the defining players of his era. More importantly, it shows the consistency that separates true superstars from short-lived superstars.

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