League: NHL Sport: Hockey Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

MacKinnon scores twice and fights in Avalanche's season opener against Kings

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 1, 2026, 5:03 AM

Last updated Oct 1, 2026

MacKinnon scores twice and fights in Avalanche's season opener against Kings

Summary

Nathan MacKinnon contributed two goals and engaged in a rare fight as the Colorado Avalanche secured an 8-4 victory over the Los Angeles Kings during their season opener on October 1. The Avalanche scored four times in the second period, including goals from Artturi Lehkonen and Brock Nelson. MacKinnon's fight with Brandt Clark late in the third period marked his first in four years. Colorado coach Jared Bednar received a four-year contract extension earlier in the day, which ended speculation about his future with the team. The Avalanche will face the St. Louis Blues on Saturday, while the Kings are set to play the San Jose Sharks.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Avalanche scored four goals in the second period.
•MacKinnon had his first fight in four years.
•Bednar's contract extension was announced before the game.
•Avalanche will host the Blues on October 3.
•Kings will play at San Jose on October 3.

Latest Updates

5:03 AMYahoo Sports — MacKinnon has 2 goals and a rare fight in the Avs' 8-4 victory over the Kings in opener

What they're saying

"
Nathan MacKinnon scored twice in a four-goal second period and capped his night with a rare fight, and the Colorado Avalanche opened the season with a 8-4 vicrtory over the Los Angeles Kings on Wednesday night. Hours before the game, Colorado coach Jared Bednar was given a four-year contract extension. Bednar, who led Colorado to the 2022 Stanley Cup title, was in the final year of his current contract.
— Yahoo Sportsby MICHAEL KELLY

Related Teams & Leagues

Colorado Avalanche Los Angeles Kings NHL Hockey