Avalanche's Nathan MacKinnon Set to Return for Playoff Opener

Star center rejoins top line and power play after missing season finale

Apr. 18, 2026 at 6:03pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting a hockey player in mid-stride, stick raised, with the puck floating amidst sharp, overlapping geometric planes in shades of blue, white, and red, conveying the dynamic energy of playoff hockey.The return of star center Nathan MacKinnon injects the Avalanche with renewed energy and scoring punch as they begin their quest for the Stanley Cup.Los Angeles Today

Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon will return to the lineup for Game 1 of the team's first-round playoff series against the Los Angeles Kings on Sunday. MacKinnon, who finished the regular season with 53 goals and 74 assists, missed the final game of the season due to an undisclosed injury but has been practicing with the team's top line and will see first-unit power play time as well.

Why it matters

MacKinnon's return is a major boost for the Avalanche as they begin their quest for the Stanley Cup. As one of the league's elite players, his presence on the ice and on the power play gives Colorado a significant advantage over their opponent.

The details

MacKinnon practiced on Saturday between wingers Artturi Lehkonen and Martin Necas, indicating he will resume his role on the Avalanche's top line. The 27-year-old center finished the regular season with 350 shots on goal and a plus-57 rating, cementing his status as one of the most dominant two-way players in the NHL.

  • MacKinnon missed the Avalanche's season finale on Thursday, April 13.
  • Game 1 of the Avalanche's first-round playoff series against the Los Angeles Kings is scheduled for Sunday, April 16.

The players

Nathan MacKinnon

A 27-year-old center for the Colorado Avalanche who finished the 2025-26 regular season with 53 goals, 74 assists, and a plus-57 rating.

Artturi Lehkonen

A winger for the Colorado Avalanche who will likely play on the top line with MacKinnon.

Martin Necas

A winger for the Colorado Avalanche who will likely play on the top line with MacKinnon.

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What they’re saying

“MacKinnon will return to the lineup for Game 1 versus Los Angeles on Sunday.”

— Evan Rawal, Reporter, Denver Gazette

What’s next

The Avalanche and Kings will face off in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series on Sunday, April 16.

The takeaway

With Nathan MacKinnon back in the lineup, the Colorado Avalanche will be at full strength as they begin their quest for the Stanley Cup. MacKinnon's presence on the top line and power play unit gives the team a significant advantage over their opponent, the Los Angeles Kings.