EDMONTON, Alberta — In two games since returning from an eight-game injury absence, Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon has four points, including a goal, and multiple shots off the post or crossbar. The 22-year-old has undoubtedly re-proven that he is the Avs’ most valuable player — and a player they must have in the lineup to make a legitimate playoff push.
MacKinnon’s linemates have been equally as impressive in the last two games, although statistics don’t support that from Sunday’s 4-2 loss against the visiting Edmonton Oilers. In Tuesday’s 5-4 overtime win at Vancouver, MacKinnon and wingers Gabe Landeskog and Mikko Rantanen — The MGM Line — combined for three power-play goals, nine power-play points and 12 shots.