Colorado Avalanche forward Nathan MacKinnon is tired of not winning: “I haven’t won sh–“

Credit: Ron Chenoy

Jun 2, 2021; Denver, Colorado, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon (29) during the first period against the Vegas Golden Knights in game two of the second round of the 2021 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

“I’m going into my ninth year next year and haven’t won shit.”

The words of a clearly frustrated Colorado Avalanche captain rang true last night as the club fell to the Vegas Golden Knights in game six of their second-round series.

“There’s always next year, but I feel it’s all we talk about,” said MacKinnon. “I’m definitely motivated and it just sucks losing four in a row. It felt like last year was our first real chance to win and this year, I thought we were the best team in the league. For whatever reason, we just couldn’t get it together. I’m sure in training camp next year we’ll dissect things and come back better.”

Now in his eighth NHL season, it’s not hard to understand where he’s coming from. Since the Avs drafted him first overall, they haven’t gotten out of the second round of the playoffs and had some… tough seasons in between.

Over his career, MacKinnon has been nothing short of incredible scoring 560 points in 573 games solidifying himself as one of the best players in the game. This year was no different.

He scored 20 goals and 65 points in 48 games this season and was named a Hart Trophy finalist. There’s no denying his role in helping the Avs win the President’s Trophy for the first time since 2001.

Nonetheless, Joe Sakic will have his work cut out for him as he looks to improve his roster in the offseason.

Zach Laing is the Nation Network’s news director and senior columnist. He can be followed on Twitter at @zjlaing, or reached by email at zach@oilersnation.com.