Nathan MacKinnon Bloodied by Teammate’s Shot But Returns as Avalanche Take Game 4

NHL · By Sarah Mitchell · May 12, 2026
Nathan MacKinnon Bloodied by Teammate’s Shot But Returns as Avalanche Take Game 4

Nathan MacKinnon of the Colorado Avalanche was left bloodied but undeterred after taking a puck to the face from his own teammate during Monday night’s pivotal Game 4 victory against the Minnesota Wild.

Midway through the contest, MacKinnon was struck in the face by a puck shot by defenseman Devon Toews. The incident resulted in a bloody nose for the Avalanche’s star center, briefly forcing him off the ice. The moment highlighted both the physical toll and unpredictability of playoff hockey, as even routine plays can have immediate, unintended consequences for players on the same team.

Despite the scare, MacKinnon’s resilience was evident. After receiving medical attention for his bloody nose, he returned to the game, helping the Avalanche secure a critical postseason win. While the specifics of his ice time following the injury were not disclosed, MacKinnon’s presence and determination underscored his status as one of the league’s elite competitors.

  • MacKinnon was injured in the second period after being struck by a puck from teammate Devon Toews
  • He skated off the ice with a bloody nose but later returned to action
  • The Avalanche won Game 4 against the Minnesota Wild

The win puts Colorado in a stronger position as the series continues, and MacKinnon’s quick return from a painful injury will be remembered as a testament to his toughness during the playoffs. For Avalanche fans, his ability to bounce back serves as a reassuring sign as the team pushes deeper into the postseason.

Sources

  1. [1]ESPN NHL