Mikko Rantanen shines in Colorado Avalanche victory, becoming just third player in NHL history to score at least four points in consecutive season openers

Mikko Rantanen, who scored more goals than anyone on the Avalanche roster last season, is off to a hot start one game into the new season.

The Finnish forward scored two of Colorado’s five goals and assisted on two others as he led the Avs to a victory over the Los Angeles Kings on Wednesday night.

Rantanen also scored four points in last year’s season opener. This is the third time in NHL history that a player has scored at least four points in consecutive season openers. The only players to do that were Peter Stastny (Avalanche, 1987 and 1988) and Syd Howe (Detroit, 1943 and 1944).

Rantanen’s first goal came in the second period at Crypto.com Arena when his wrist shot from a tight angle inside the left faceoff circle hit Kings goalie Cam Talbot. Talbot’s header, the ball entered near the far post. His second goal came in Game 3 when he redirected Jake Johnson’s shot from the blue line into the net.

“I guess just excitement. I missed some training camp, so I’m excited to play,” Rantanen said. “Playing with good players also helps.”

After a 5-2 victory, the Avs will travel to San Jose to face the Sharks on Saturday night.