http://www.denverpost.com/avalanche/ci_275...s-top-lightningThe delayed-but-fierce weekend snowstorm resembles the Avalanche's offense this season. It has arrived, and as expected, it is formidable.
Teenager Nathan MacKinnon caused hats to drop like snowflakes Sunday at the Pepsi Center as his three goals powered Colorado to a 5-4 victory over the late-game rallying Tampa Bay Lightning. The Avs made their shots count, producing just 18 for the game and only getting one power play opportunity (0-for-1).
The visitors (32 shots, 0-of-3 power play) scored two late goals and had several good chances on a 6-on-5 attack in the final minute, but the Avs hung on for their fourth win in five games.
"It's been an up-and-down season, lot of downs in terms of the team and winning, but lately we've been playing some solid hockey," MacKinnon said. "It's good to see the puck go in for my first hat trick, for sure."
Suddenly, one of the NHL's most disappointing offenses has produced 19 goals in its last five games, and that includes a 4-1 loss to the Los Angeles Kings in which Colorado had 43 shots against red-hot goalie Jonathan Quick.
Mckinnon Gets first Hat Trick!
Feb 23 2015, 11:19 AM
