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DENVER — Extending its winning streak to eight games seemed like a sure thing 22 minutes into the game Thursday night, but the Avalanche had to scratch and claw for it after surviving an impressive comeback by the San Jose Sharks at the Pepsi Center.
Behind Nathan MacKinnon's two goals and eighth three-point performance of his remarkable season, the Avs prevailed 5-3 to for their eighth consecutive win, the third-longest streak in club history.
MacKinnon's right winger, Mikko Rantanen, also had a three-point night with a goal and two assists; and second line left wing Matt Nieto had a goal and an assist.