Jacob MacDonald has made AHL history, setting a new single-season record for goals by a defenseman with 31 tallies in the 2024–25 season.
The 32-year-old veteran scored the milestone goal during the Colorado Eagles’ matchup against the Ontario Reign, surpassing the previous record of 30 goals held by John Slaney since the 1999–2000 season. The goal came as part of a standout offensive campaign that has placed MacDonald in the spotlight leaguewide.
REWRITE THE SCRIPT🔒📷@ColoradoEagles' Jacob MacDonald is the new AHL record holder for goals in a single season by a defenseman with 31, surpassing the 30 tallies set by John Slaney in 1999-2000. pic.twitter.com/Q5PZtrLXKP
— American Hockey League (@TheAHL) April 17, 2025
Known for his offensive instincts, heavy shot, and strong skating, MacDonald has been a key piece on the Eagles’ blue line and a constant threat on the power play. His 31 goals not only top all AHL defensemen this season, but also position him among the league’s leading scorers overall—an impressive feat for a player patrolling the back end.
MacDonald’s achievement brings an end to a 25-year-old record, previously held by Slaney, who had long been considered the gold standard for offensive defensemen in the AHL. With several regular-season games still remaining, MacDonald now has a chance to further raise the bar.
This record-setting season adds to an already accomplished professional career for MacDonald, who has played in over 100 NHL games with teams including the Colorado Avalanche and San Jose Sharks. Despite that experience, he’s continued to excel in the AHL, contributing leadership and consistency to the Eagles lineup.
Beyond the numbers, MacDonald’s success reflects a broader shift in the way defensemen contribute to the game. The modern blueliner is expected not just to defend, but to drive offense—and MacDonald has embodied that evolution better than most this season.
The Colorado Eagles, the AHL affiliate of the Colorado Avalanche, are currently contending for playoff positioning, and MacDonald’s scoring touch will be vital as the team pushes toward the postseason.
As he adds to his record in the coming games, MacDonald’s 2024–25 campaign will likely be remembered as one of the most dominant ever by an AHL defenseman.