The most recent Colorado Avalanche injury update provided some pleasant news for supporters. One of the primary questions following the Avs’ series victory against the Minnesota Wild on Wednesday night was Cale Makar’s fitness.
Makar did not attend Saturday’s practice, causing concerns that something might be amiss with the Norris Trophy nominee. However, coach Jared Bednar verified that Makar is day-to-day, according to Jesse Montano of Guerrilla Sports.
The specific nature of his sickness is unknown.
Makar sustained a serious shoulder injury on March 30 after being struck hard by giant Adam Klapka in a game against the Calgary Flames. Makar remained in the game but departed and did not return until late in the regular season.
While the superstar blueliner has not missed any time this season, there is conjecture that he is playing through something significant. Dr. Harjas Grewal, a well-known medical practitioner, believes Makar is suffering from a separated shoulder.
It would be no surprise if Makar played through an injury during the playoffs. Almost everyone is dealing with something at this time of year. That is why taking time off between series would be ideal for Makar to recover.
Bednar anticipates his top blueliner to be in the lineup for Game 1 against the Vegas Golden Knights.
Avalanche injury prognosis good for other injured soldiers.
Meanwhile, Brent Burns, Artturi Lehkonen, and Josh Manson were among the other players that missed training on Saturday.
As Bednar pointed out, each of these critical components is updated on a daily basis and should be ready for Game 1 next Wednesday. In particular, bringing Lehkonen back into the lineup will provide the team’s offense a significant boost. The Finnish player is a regular on the top line alongside Nathan MacKinnon and Martin Necas. Furthermore, Lehkonen has an unblemished playoff record.
Burns and Manson are crucial pieces of the Avalanche blueline. Colorado essentially played with five defenders for the final two games of their series against the Wild. Jack Ahcan, dressed as the sixth defender, has played less than five minutes in both games.
Sam Malinski was also present at practice on Saturday, although he wore a red non-contact jersey. He will have some time to regain game fitness.
The Avalanche hope to have their entire squad available for Game 1 as they attempt to gain an early lead over the Golden Knights in the Western Conference Final.
