"Things McDavid would never do" "Matthews would’ve acted dumb": NHL fans react as Nathan Mackinnon drops the gloves against Barrett Hayton

Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon dropped the gloves and exchanged punches with Utah Hockey Club's Barrett Hayton during Friday's game. Hayton appeared to have blocked MacKinnon in a corner, which led to the fight in the second period.

His quick scuffle against Hayton was the first time he dropped gloves in almost three years. Both players got five minutes in the penalty box for fighting.

Fans watching the game were less than impressed by the Avalanche star's antics and shared their ire on social media. Perhaps they did not appreciate the current leader on points in the league using his fists instead of sticking to scoring.

Some compared the Avs center with stars like Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews.

"Matthews would’ve acted dumb and waited for Reilly to save the day," a fan said.

"I'll take "things mcdavid would never do" for $200," another fan said.

"Empty net McAltitude with a take down," a fan said.

Other fans seemed more amused by the fight than angry. They pointed out that this was McKinnon's fourth fight against a player from the Arizona Coyotes/Utah.

"MacKinnon does NOT like Arizona/Utah," one fan posted on X.

"Isnt this like Mackinnons 5th fight against someone in the ARZ/UTAH franchise?" another asked.

"Nate throwin down Dartmouth style," one fan posted.

Nathan MacKinnon led Avs to hard-fought victory

Nathan MacKinnon seemed to have inspired his teammates as Colorado went on to defeat Utah. Apart from the fight in the closing stages of the second period, he also contributed three assists in the 4-1 win. Artturi Lehkonen was the star for the Avs, scoring his first NHL hat trick.

According to analysts, the game was closer than the scoreline suggested. Utah goalie Karel Vejmelka was in inspired form, highlighted when he shut out MacKinnon in a one-on-one. He made 33 saves while on the ice, only letting in a shot from Lehkonen in the second period.

When Utah tied the game midway through the third, fans at the Delta Center were hoping for a comeback win. However, the home side’s defense broke down with only five minutes left when Lehkonen turned in a rebound off Vejmelka’s leg for his second goal.

Utah pulled their goalie for the final few minutes but were unable to capitalize, with Colorado scoring twice into an empty net.