The Colorado Avalanche will hit the ice on Friday night for Game 2 of their Western Conference Final against the Vegas Golden Knights.
The Golden Knights drew first blood by taking the opening game 4-2. The game was an evenly-matched affair with the Golden Knights simply taking full advantage of the opportunities they had.
So, the prospect of falling behind 2-0 in the series will certainly motivate the Avalanche to come out guns blazing. But it could also spur a shift in the lineup. While it’s unclear what sort of changes Jared Bednar could make.
From some of the comments, such as Avs beat writer Evan Rawal, Bednar could roll with the lines we saw towards the end of Game 1.
We’ll see if they make changes tomorrow, but felt like the Avs might have found something with that Kadri line last night.
— Evan Rawal (@evanrawal) May 21, 2026
Nichushkin and Colton were flying all night. Penalty aside, which is debatable given the standard they set and the flop, Colton is playing very well.
If that’s the case, Nazem Kadri could slot behind Nathan MacKinnon on the second line, while bumping Brock Nelson down in a more defensive, third-line role.
Here’s a thought of what Bednar could roll with in Game 2:
- Lehkonen-MacKinnon-Necas
- Colton-Kadri-Nichushkin
- Landeskog-Nelson-Roy
- Kelly-Drury-O’Connor
Considering how impactful Ross Colton and Valeri Nichushkin were in Game 1, it wouldn’t be surprising to see them get some significant ice time to start Game 2. However, that second line may see some changes throughout the game, especially as the Golden Knights try to adjust to the Avalanche’s shifts.
The biggest question mark remains Cale Makar. He hit the ice for the optional practice on Thursday. He was not in a red sweater and didn’t look hampered.
No update on Cale Makar. “We’ll see what tomorrow brings,” Bednar said. pic.twitter.com/KLxKJCIBLK
— Evan Rawal (@evanrawal) May 21, 2026
Bednar did not comment on whether Makar would play or not in Game 2. It’s tough to bet either way, but considering there is a sense of urgency on the Avalanche’s part, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Makar in the lineup.
If that’s the case, here’s what the defense pairings could look like:
- Toews-Makar
- Kulak-Burns
- Malinski-Manson
UPDATE: Jared Bednar confirmed following Friday's morning skate that Makar would miss Game 2. There is no timeline on when the Norris Trophy winner could return.
It’s worth pointing out that Bednar may want to be careful with Makar. He’ll likely become a target for the Golden Knights. So, if there’s any inkling that something might go wrong, Makar won’t play.
Given what we saw from the clips in practice, Makar could be in the lineup, though everyone will be holding their breath every time Vegas touches him.
Lastly, the other major question will be in the crease. Scott Wedgewood will likely get the call. However, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him have a short leash. Bednar could turn to MacKenzie Blackwood at the first sign of trouble.
That’s why it will be imperative for the Avalanche to strike first. Getting out to an early lead will certainly help settle things down for the bulk of the tilt.
Puck drop is scheduled for 6 pm MST at Ball Arena.
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