sports

MacKinnon Becomes First NHL Player of Season to Hit 50 Goals

Nathan MacKinnon became the first NHL player this season to hit 50 goals, scoring a liner against Vancouver early in the first period.

MacKinnon’s 50th goal of the season came with a liner from up top that beat Vancouver goaltender Kevin Lankinen early in the first period. He celebrated by sliding on his right knee while pumping his right glove.

The milestone marks MacKinnon's second 50‑goal campaign and the third in Colorado/Quebec history, joining Joe Sakic and Michel Goulet. He also ties Nikita Kucherov for second in points with 121, just four behind league leader Connor McDavid.