The Colorado Avalanche, owners of the best record in the NHL during the regular season, could be in trouble for Game 1 of the Western Conference finals against the Vegas Golden Knights. Star defenseman Cale Makar will miss Game 1 with an upper body injury. His absence was confirmed by coach Jared Bednar Wednesday, May 20.
Despite Makar being listed as day-to-day, there was always concern that he could miss time during the Western Conferene finals. On Tuesday, Makar’s teammate and fellow blueliner Sam Malinski said, “You can’t replace him, and we’re going to miss him out there. Yeah, hopefully we can still get it done without him.”
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His comments hinted that he knew the team would likely be without Makar.
Previously, Makar missed some time during Game 5 of the Avalanche’s series against the Minnesota Wild, but ;later returned. That game happened a week ago. Though many fans believed that would be ample time for the Norris Trophy winner to recover, he clearly needs longer than what was originally anticipated. Here’s what we know.
How long will Cale Makar be out?
Although there is no timeline for Makar’s return right now, Avalanche fans can breathe a little easier knowing that he was seen skating on his own during practice Wednesday morning, which could mean he is due for a return earlier in this series rather than later.
What is Cale Makar’s injury?
The nature of Makar’s injury has not been publicly disclosed. All that has been revealed is that it is an upper body injury.
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There is belief that Makar’s collision with Minnesota’s Ryan Hartman may have caused the injury. Makar recovered from the hit but came up holding his shoulder and arm.
When do the Avalanche play next?
The Avalanche are set to host Game 1 of the Western Conference finals Wednesday, May 20, at 8 p.m. ET. Interested fans can watch the game on ESPN.
The next time Makar may be able to play is Game 2. That contest is set for Friday, May 22, at 8 p.m. ET.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Cale Makar injury to keep Avalanche star out for Game 1 vs Vegas
