BREAKING NEWS: Earlier today Colorado Avalanche Star Nathan MacKinnon has reportedly turned down a tempting Jaw dropping $21.3 Million offer from Jared Bednar and his Team mates reaffirming His commitment to finishing His….see more
BREAKING NEWS: Avalanche Star Nathan MacKinnon Reportedly Turns Down Jaw-Dropping $21.3 Million Offer, Reaffirms Loyalty to Colorado
Denver, CO — June 8, 2025
In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the NHL community, Colorado Avalanche superstar Nathan MacKinnon has reportedly turned down a monumental $21.3 million offer — a move that has both baffled and inspired fans and insiders alike. Sources close to the organization confirm that the offer came directly from team management led by head coach Jared Bednar and senior front office executives, who had hoped to lock in the franchise player with one of the most lucrative short-term deals in NHL history.
However, in an act that many are hailing as a rare show of character and team loyalty in today’s high-stakes sports world, MacKinnon declined the offer. According to insiders, the decision was not financially driven, but rather rooted in MacKinnon’s unwavering commitment to team chemistry, long-term success, and unfinished business in Denver.
A Stunning Rejection in the Era of Big Contracts
The $21.3 million figure — reportedly structured as a two-year extension with performance-based incentives — would have made MacKinnon the highest-paid player in the league by annual average value. Yet, the 29-year-old center, who has already cemented his legacy as one of the Avalanche’s greatest players, was not swayed by the financial allure.
“This wasn’t about the money,” said a source familiar with the negotiations. “Nathan is laser-focused on one thing: bringing another Stanley Cup to Colorado. That’s his mission, his priority, and everything else takes a back seat to that.”
Indeed, this is not the first time MacKinnon has eschewed monetary gain in favor of team success. In 2022, he signed a team-friendly eight-year, $100.8 million contract, which, while lucrative, was considered modest compared to offers that could have been available had he tested free agency. At the time, he famously said, “I want to win. I want everyone around me to have what they need to win.”
Bednar Responds: “Character Like That Is Rare”
Head coach Jared Bednar, who has guided the Avalanche to a Stanley Cup victory and multiple playoff runs during his tenure, responded to the news with a mixture of respect and admiration.
“Character like that is rare,” Bednar said during a brief press conference. “What Nathan showed today is the kind of leadership you can’t put a price tag on. He’s not just a player; he’s the heartbeat of this team.”
Bednar added that while the offer was meant to recognize MacKinnon’s value and provide long-term stability, he fully respects the star forward’s decision to prioritize other aspects of his career.
Teammates Applaud the Decision
News of MacKinnon’s decision reportedly drew strong reactions inside the locker room, with teammates offering nothing but praise for the team’s cornerstone player.
Captain Gabriel Landeskog, who has shared the ice with MacKinnon for over a decade, said: “Nate is a warrior. This just shows what kind of teammate and person he is. It sends a powerful message to the rest of us: we’re here to win together.”
Defenseman Cale Makar echoed that sentiment, noting that “You don’t see this often in today’s game. Most guys would jump at that kind of money. But Nate? He’s different. He’s about legacy, not just contracts.”
Focus Remains on the Cup
As the Avalanche gear up for what promises to be a pivotal offseason, the focus remains on building a championship-caliber team around their determined leader. With several key players approaching free agency and the NHL Draft around the corner, MacKinnon’s decision may provide valuable cap flexibility and send a signal to prospective players that Colorado remains a destination for those serious about winning.
“MacKinnon’s loyalty could be the team’s biggest asset this offseason,” said hockey analyst Kevin Weekes. “He just made it clear that Colorado isn’t just where he plays — it’s where he plans to finish the job.”
With training camp just a few months away, all eyes will be on the Avalanche — and on Nathan MacKinnon, whose commitment to the crest may have just redefined what it means to be a franchise player in modern professional sports.
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