What’s next for Nathan MacKinnon? The final steps to hockey immortality

Nathan MacKinnon has already built an impressive NHL career, but to guarantee his place in the Hockey Hall of Fame, he needs to accomplish a few more key milestones. While his speed, skill, and leadership have made him one of the league’s top players, cementing his legacy requires further achievements.

Winning another Stanley Cup would be a huge step in solidifying his legacy. MacKinnon was instrumental in the Colorado Avalanche’s 2022 championship run, proving he could deliver on the biggest stage. However, many of the game’s legends, like Sidney Crosby and Patrick Kane, have multiple titles to their names. Adding another Cup or even more would put MacKinnon in that elite category and establish him as one of the best winners of his generation.

Another major accomplishment that has eluded him is the Hart Trophy. Despite being one of the most talented and consistent players in the league, MacKinnon has never won the NHL’s MVP award. He has come close several times, finishing as a finalist, but he has been overshadowed by players like Connor McDavid. Winning a Hart Trophy would be a defining moment in his career, proving that he was recognized as the absolute best player in the league at least once.
Finally, reaching 1,500 career points would all but guarantee his Hall of Fame status. Many of the greatest forwards in NHL history have hit that milestone, and MacKinnon is well on his way. With over 800 points already, he will need several more productive seasons to get there, but given his skill and consistency, it’s very achievable. If he stays healthy and keeps up his scoring pace, he will eventually join the ranks of legendary players who have reached that mark.
MacKinnon’s place in the Hall of Fame already seems likely, but winning another Stanley Cup, capturing a Hart Trophy, and hitting 1,500 career points would make his case undeniable. If he accomplishes these goals, he will be remembered as one of the greatest players of his generation.
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The 2025 NHL 4 Nations Face-Off, running from February 12-20, features Canada, the U.S., Finland, and Sweden. Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, and Devon Toews are representing Canada, while Artturi Lehkonen and Mikko Rantanen are playing for Finland. The tournament replaces the NHL All-Star Game and is being held in Montreal and Boston. A Team Canada win would add another major achievement to MacKinnon’s career.