The latest Colorado Avalanche injury update featured some encouraging news for fans. One of the major concerns following the Avs’ series win over the Minnesota Wild last Wednesday night was the health of Cale Makar.
Makar missed Saturday’s practice, fueling speculation that something might be up with the Norris Trophy nominee. However, coach Jared Bednar confirmed that Makar is day-to-day, per Jesse Montano of Guerrilla Sports.
Bednar said that all of these players are considered day-to-day, but he expects pretty much all of them to be on the ice between now and Game 1 https://t.co/FuNhLQKmZt
— Jesse Montano (@jessemontano_) May 16, 2026
The precise nature of what’s ailing him is unconfirmed.
It’s worth pointing out that Makar suffered a significant shoulder injury on March 30 when he took a major hit from towering Adam Klapka in a game against the Calgary Flames. Makar remained in the game, but then left and did not return until late in the regular season.
While the superstar blueliner has not missed any time this postseason, there’s speculation that he might be playing through something serious. As renowned medical expert Dr. Harjas Grewal noted, he suspects Makar is dealing with a separated shoulder.
Suspected a separated shoulder for Makar after a hit from Klapka March 30 (see below)
— Dr. Harjas Grewal (@Harjas_Grewal) May 14, 2026
There isn’t much on this play but just wonder if he’s playing through that still and thus the clips of him looking injured https://t.co/q1KZLSJqUV
It wouldn’t be surprising to see Makar gritting through an injury in the playoffs. Just about everyone is dealing with one thing or another at this time of the year. That’s why the time off in between one series and another will be great in helping Makar recover.
Bednar expects his top blueliner to be in the lineup for Game 1 against the Vegas Golden Knights.
Avalanche injury update positive for other wounded warriors
Meanwhile, the other players who missed practice on Saturday included Brent Burns, Artturi Lehkonen, and Josh Manson.
As Bednar also stated, each of these key elements is day-to-day and could be ready for Game 1 next Wednesday. In particular, getting Lehkonen back in the lineup will be a crucial boost to the team’s offense. The Finnish star is a mainstay on the top line with Nathan MacKinnon and Martin Necas. Plus, Lehkonen has an undeniable playoff reputation.
As for Burns and Manson, they are critical to the Avalanche blueline. Colorado essentially played with five defensemen during the last two games of the series against the Wild. Jack Ahcan, who dressed as the sixth defender, has played less than five minutes in both games.
The Avalanche will hopefully dress their full lineup for Game 1 as they look to get the jump on the Golden Knights in the opening game of the Western Conference Final.
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