/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65142029/usa_today_12531741.0.jpg)
The Top 25 Under 25 is a collaboration by members of the Mile High Hockey community. Eleven writers and 480 readers ranked players under the age of 25 as of September 1, 2019 in the Colorado Avalanche organization. Each participant used their own metric of current ability and production against future projection to rank each player. Now, we’ll count down each of the 25 players ranked.
I was wondering what to do for this article. There are countless articles outlining why Nathan MacKinnon is one of the best players in the NHL. He’s the engine that powers the Colorado Avalanche, and he’s still only 23 years old.
I could go on and on about his stats, making arguments for Hart trophies over the past few years, how he makes his teammates better, or his blossoming as a true leader on the team.
But you know that.
So instead, behold! Our Top-10 Nathan MacKinnon plays from 2018-19!
#10: Owning the Buffalo Sabres once.
#9: Owning the Sabres twice!
#TBT Nathan MacKinnon turns Rasmus Dahlin inside out to open the scoring in a 3-0 win over the Buffalo Sabres. pic.twitter.com/gk7MSk7XsP
— Avalanche Forever. (@citchmook) July 25, 2019
#8: He can pass, too!
Jost ➡️ MacKinnon ➡️ Wilson
— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) November 29, 2018
EASY. #GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/xJH260vovm
#7: Threading the needle in a split second
Nathan MacKinnon is E L I T E #GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/PXwsIINsrI
— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) March 28, 2019
#6: Jedi Mind Tricks
Nate The Great #GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/w7317hwPof
— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) December 9, 2018
#5: Turns out, you *can* beat dirty hockey!
#4: Game 4 vs San Jose - 23 minutes, seven shots, one game-winning goal.
MAKAR RANTANEN MACKINNON #GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/f88U5xiffn
— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) May 3, 2019
#3: Nathan MacDangles
Nathan MacKinnon in the shootout: #GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/yyzDxRxXYu
— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) March 30, 2019
#2: The Hit. The Deke. The Snipe.
#1: Game 2 vs Calgary - The Save. The Goal.
What was your favorite goal, play or moment from MacKinnon’s season? I would love to hear them!