Avs clinch NHL's top seed with 3-1 win vs. Flames

DENVER --Nathan MacKinnonscored his career-high 52nd goal of the season into an empty net and had two assists to help theColorado Avalancheclinch the NHL's top seed for the postseason with a3-1 winover theCalgary Flameson Thursday night.

It's the fourth time Colorado has won the Presidents' Trophy for the best record in hockey. That's tied with theBoston BruinsandNew York Rangersfor the second most behind theDetroit Red Wings, who have done it six times, sources report.

With 114 points and four games left, the Avalanche have a shot to earn 120 in a season for the first time in franchise history. There have been only 12 NHL teams to reach at least 120 points, the most recent being the Bruins in 2022-23 with 135.

Colorado's 52 wins this season are tied for the second most in franchise history; the team record is 56, which was set in the 2021-22 season.

Martin NecasandGabriel Landeskogalso scored for the Avalanche, who were without forwardNazem Kadri(finger) and defensemanCale Makar(upper body).Mackenzie Blackwoodstopped 28 shots.

Brent Burnshad an assist to give him 34 points this season. The 41-year-old Burns ties Nicklas Lidstrom (2011-12) for the second-most points in a season by a blueliner age 40 or older in NHL history.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.