Top Scorer Candidate #2 – Nathan MacKinnon
Feb 22, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon (29) (center) reacts to his hat trick goal in the second period against the Tampa Bay Lightning at the Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
In his draft year, Nathan MacKinnon was said to be one of the most talented players since Sidney Crosby. Nevertheless, it was a surprise to many, when the Colorado Avalanche picked him first overall over defenseman Seth Jones, who ended up being drafted by the Nashville Predators.
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MacKinnon did his best to prove that his team made the right decision, scoring 63 points in an outstanding rookie campaign, which made him a lock to win the Calder Trophy in 2014. Unfortunately, his sophomore season wasn’t quite as successful, as MacKinnon only recorded 38 points in an injury-shortened season.
However, Nathan MacKinnon still is one of the most talented players since Sidney Crosby. The whole team was in a slum last season; MacKinnon was just part of it. He lost a great line mate in Ryan O’Reilly, who will lace up his skates for the Buffalo Sabres in the future, but MacKinnon should be able to carry the line with Gabriel Landeskog.
2014-15 point total: 38 points
2015-16 projection: 65 points
Next: Avs Top Scorer Candidate #1