NHL Rescinds Major Penalty Against Nathan MacKinnon

On March 10, 2026, during a game between the Colorado Avalanche and the Edmonton Oilers, Nathan MacKinnon received a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct for goaltender interference after colliding with Oilers goaltender Connor Ingram. The incident occurred late in the second period while MacKinnon was attempting to score. As he drove to the net, Oilers defenseman Darnell Nurse inadvertently pushed him, causing MacKinnon to crash into Ingram, who subsequently left the game with a cut on his forehead.

NHL Rescinds Major Penalty Against Avalanche's Nathan MacKinnonThe Sporting NewsESPNNHL reverses decision Nathan MacKinnon's goalie interference penaltyAvalanche’s MacKinnon has major penalty against Oilers rescindedNathan MacKinnon gives good update on his controversial penalty – Denver SportsNHL rescinds Nathan MacKinnon's major penalty against OilersAvalanche forward Nathan MacKinnon’s major voided by NHL

On March 12, 2026, the NHL announced that it had rescinded the major penalty against MacKinnon. This decision was significant as players who receive two major penalties within a certain timeframe face an automatic one-game suspension. By rescinding the penalty, MacKinnon's record resets, allowing him to avoid potential disciplinary action as the Avalanche continue their playoff push.

Avalanche’s MacKinnon has major penalty against Oilers rescinded

Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar was vocal in his criticism of the initial penalty, arguing that MacKinnon would not have collided with Ingram had Nurse not interfered. "There's no chance he hits the goalie if Nurse doesn't run into him," Bednar stated. He emphasized that the responsibility for the collision lay with the Oilers' defenseman, not MacKinnon. Other Avalanche players, including Cale Makar, echoed Bednar's sentiments, highlighting MacKinnon's awareness on the ice and his efforts to avoid contact.

The Sporting News

The Oilers expressed frustration over the rescinding of the penalty, viewing it as a dismissal of player safety concerns. Ingram's injury and the nature of the collision raised alarms within the Oilers' locker room, with players feeling that MacKinnon's actions were reckless. The incident has intensified the rivalry between the two teams, and there are expectations of heightened physicality in future matchups.

NHL Rescinds Major Penalty Against Avalanche's Nathan MacKinnon

With the penalty rescinded, MacKinnon remains a crucial asset for the Avalanche, who are currently competing for playoff positioning. His performance this season has been stellar, with 104 points in 61 games, making him a favorite for the Hart Trophy as the league's most valuable player. The Avalanche's next game is against the Seattle Kraken on March 15, 2026, where they will look to bounce back from their recent loss to the Oilers.

Avalanche’s MacKinnon has major penalty against Oilers rescinded

MacKinnon commented on the NHL's decision, acknowledging that "mistakes happen" and expressing relief at the outcome. Bednar's post-game remarks underscored his belief that the penalty was unwarranted, stating, "If you put guys into your own goalie, it's not a penalty." The Avalanche organization, including general manager Chris MacFarland, sought a review of the penalty, which ultimately led to its rescission.

NHL reverses decision Nathan MacKinnon's goalie interference penalty

The Avalanche will continue to rely on MacKinnon's offensive capabilities as they navigate the final stretch of the regular season. The rescinded penalty alleviates concerns about his disciplinary record, allowing him to focus on contributing to the team's success without the looming threat of suspension. As the rivalry with the Oilers intensifies, future encounters are anticipated to be highly competitive and physical.

NHL rescinds major penalty on Nathan MacKinnon