MacKinnon avoids discipline for slashing linesman

Colorado Avalanche superstar Nathan MacKinnon won't be disciplined for slashing a linesman on Monday against the Boston Bruins, the NHL announced Tuesday.

MacKinnon's stick appeared to make contact with linesman Michel Cormier's shin while attempting to slash an opposing player.

"It has been determined that the player's intention was not to strike the official but, rather, to initiate contact with the opposing player," the league said in a statement.

MacKinnon has never been suspended in his nine-year career. The only blemish on his resume is a $5,000 fine last season for unsportsmanlike conduct after tossing a helmet at Conor Garland.