CHICAGO – Despite Nathan MacKinnon extending his point streak, the Colorado Avalanche fell to the Chicago Blackhawks 3-2 at the United Center on Tuesday. MacKinnon’s assist marked a career-high 16-game streak, highlighting his consistent impact for the Avalanche.
Tyler Johnson’s third-period goal was pivotal for the Blackhawks (10-20-1), snapping their four-game losing streak. Ryan Donato’s goal and assist, along with Petr Mrazek’s 35 saves, were also key to Chicago’s success. Blackhawks coach Luke Richardson emphasized the importance of consistent focus and hard work in securing this victory.
Valeri Nichushkin scored both goals for the Avalanche (19-11-2), who have been battling to maintain their form. Goaltender Alexandar Georgiev made 19 saves but couldn’t prevent the loss. “We’ve got guys in here who aren’t showing up right now,” said Colorado defenseman Devon Toews, addressing the team’s need for a full-game effort.
Donato put Chicago ahead in the first period, capitalizing on a rebound off Nikita Zaitsev’s shot, set up by Connor Bedard’s cross-ice pass. “I’ve been praying a lot for something to finally go in and I was lucky it did tonight,” Donato remarked on his goal.
Nichushkin’s back-to-back power-play goals, the first assisted by Jonathan Drouin and MacKinnon, gave Colorado a brief lead. However, Lukas Reichel, assisted by Bedard, tied the game for Chicago with a wrist shot past Georgiev.
Johnson’s decisive power-play goal in the third, tipping Nick Foligno’s pass, sealed the win for the Blackhawks.
The Avalanche missed key players, including defenseman Cale Makar and forward Andrew Cogliano, due to injuries. “Every team is at this point, so it’s not an excuse,” said Colorado coach Jared Bednar, emphasizing the need for a stronger mindset and discipline.
Notable Notes:
- MacKinnon’s point streak is tied for the fifth-longest in Avalanche/Quebec Nordiques history.
- Rookie Connor Bedard’s performance, with his fifth multipoint game, leads among all NHL rookies this season.
- Blackhawks forward Colin Blackwell played his first game of the season after recovering from a lower-body injury.
The Blackhawks’ victory over the Avalanche demonstrates their potential to overcome challenges, while Colorado continues to seek consistency amid their star player’s remarkable streak.
