newstimes
DENVER (AP) — Nathan MacKinnon contributed three assists and a power-play goal, Artturi Lehkonen netted two goals, and the Colorado Avalanche stormed back to defeat the Pittsburgh Penguins 5-2 on Friday night.
T.J. Hughes scored his first NHL goal, while Mackenzie Blackwood overcame a rocky beginning to finish with 29 saves.
Evgeni Malkin and Bryan Rust staked Pittsburgh to a 2-0 advantage by scoring 29 seconds apart midway through the first period.
Colorado then reeled off five consecutive goals, including three in the second period.
The Avalanche converted 1 of 4 power-play opportunities in the debut of assistant coach Brett McLean, who took charge of the unit after Dave Hakstol departed to become head coach of the men's hockey program at Arizona State.
Lehkonen's second goal tied the game 25 seconds into the second period. Captain Gabriel Landeskog put Colorado ahead nearly four minutes later with his 83rd career go-ahead goal, tying him with Mikko Rantanen for sixth-most in Avalanche history. Hall of Famer Joe Sakic holds the franchise record with 210.
Hughes, left unchecked near the net, redirected a pass from MacKinnon. He was embraced by Cale Makar and then playfully squirted with water by Landeskog as he skated past the bench.
Sidney Crosby recorded his 1,110th career assist, moving into sole possession of seventh place in NHL history. He is also one assist away from matching Ray Bourque (1,111 with Boston) for the most assists in league history with a single franchise.
MacKinnon improved to 12-6-3 in games against Crosby, his close friend from Nova Scotia. MacKinnon was awarded a penalty shot but was stopped by Arturs Silovs.
Key Analysis
The Avalanche's comeback showcased their resilience after an early two-goal deficit. MacKinnon's four-point performance continues his strong season, while the power-play unit showed promise under McLean's direction. Crosby's milestone adds another chapter to his legendary career, and his pursuit of Bourque's record will be closely watched. The win also marked Blackwood's ability to recover from a shaky start, providing stability in net.
UP NEXT: Penguins visit Vegas on Saturday night. Avalanche begin a two-game road trip Monday night at Philadelphia.
_ See AP's full NHL coverage here.
Originally reported by newstimes.