OFFICIAL NEWS: The Colorado Avalanche today announced they have acquired forward Nathan MacKinnon and center Ross Colton via a seven-team trade with Atlanta, Brooklyn, Edmonton Oiler, Golden State, the Los Angeles Lakers, Minnesota and Phoenix…….see more

OFFICIAL NEWS: Avalanche Acquire Nathan MacKinnon and Ross Colton in Stunning Seven-Team Trade

In one of the most complex and surprising transactions in recent sports history, the Colorado Avalanche today announced the acquisition of superstar forward Nathan MacKinnon and center Ross Colton via a seven-team mega-trade involving the Atlanta Firebirds, Brooklyn Blades, Edmonton Oilers, Golden State Guardians, Los Angeles Lakers, Minnesota North Stars, and Phoenix Heat.

The blockbuster deal, finalized late Sunday night, brings MacKinnon—long considered one of the NHL’s premier talents—back to the Mile High City after a shocking departure last season. Ross Colton, a proven two-way center with Stanley Cup experience, will also don the Avalanche sweater as part of the franchise’s renewed push for a championship.

Details of the Trade (Reported)

While the full terms are still being finalized, early reports suggest the Avalanche sent a combination of draft picks, prospects, and cap space maneuvering across multiple leagues and teams. The seven-team framework, rarely seen in modern sports, required creative coordination among NHL and even NBA franchises, most notably the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Guardians, who provided cap relief and player rights in a cross-sport exchange of assets.

Avalanche GM Speaks Out

“This is a day our fans won’t forget,” said Avalanche GM Chris MacFarland. “Nathan is not just an elite player—he’s a leader, a cornerstone, and a symbol of what Avalanche hockey means. Bringing him and Ross Colton into this group makes us an instant contender.”

When asked about the complexity of the deal, MacFarland added: “Seven teams, three leagues, and a lot of late nights on the phone. But it was worth every call to bring these two guys here.”

MacKinnon’s Return to Denver

Nathan MacKinnon, drafted first overall by Colorado in 2013, led the Avalanche to a Stanley Cup title in 2022 and won the Hart Trophy in 2023 before a controversial trade to Brooklyn in 2024. His return marks a full-circle moment for the franchise and its fans, who never stopped chanting his name.

“It’s emotional,” MacKinnon said in a video call from Nova Scotia. “Denver is home. I’m grateful for the journey, but I can’t wait to get back on that ice wearing the ‘A’ again.”

What’s Next

The Avalanche are expected to hold a press conference this week at Ball Arena. Meanwhile, fan reaction across Colorado has been electric, with thousands taking to social media to welcome MacKinnon and Colton back to the fold.

The full impact of the seven-team trade may take weeks to digest, but one thing is clear: the Colorado Avalanche just changed the game.