The NHL rescinded Nathan MacKinnon’s major penalty for running over opposing goaltender Connor Ingram, the Colorado Avalanche forward told reporters Thursday.
MacKinnon was ejected from Colorado’s 4-3 loss to the visiting Edmonton Oilers on Tuesday night after he flattened Ingram on a drive to the crease in the final minute of the second period.
Officials penalized MacKinnon with a five-minute major and a game misconduct despite replay showing that he was angled into the goalie by Oilers defenseman Darnell Nurse.
Being absolved of wrongdoing is a boon to MacKinnon, who would have been suspended for one game if he received a second major and game misconduct within his next 41 appearances.
MacKinnon is tied for second in league scoring with 104 points (43 goals, 61 assists) in 62 games.
Ingram, who left Tuesday’s matchup to be evaluated for a concussion, was cleared to back up Oilers starter Tristan Jarry against the Dallas Stars on Thursday night.
The powerhouse Avalanche, who had won five straight before falling to Edmonton, open a two-game road trip against the Seattle Kraken on Thursday.
