Makar remains uncertain for Team Canada
Cale Makar was a surprise scratch on Saturday night against the United States. Makar sat on the sidelines with an undisclosed illness. It was an unfortunate setback because his absence was noticeable. Without Makar and Shea Theodore, the Canadian squad missed an elite puck-moving defenseman that could support McDavid and MacKinnon.
In particular, Makar’s absence was huge as veteran defenseman Drew Doughty looked like he was skating on molasses. Other tough blue liners like Colton Parayko held their own very well but did not generate the offense Canada needed to defeat the US.
While Team Canada desperately needs Makar in the lineup, his status remains uncertain. Makar told reporters on Sunday that he felt good and “just got to make sure myself that I feel good and I’m ready to go.”
There’s no indication what the nature of Makar’s illness is. But whatever it was, Makar will hopefully be over it. Makar’s words on Sunday sounded encouraging. With another day of rest, he could be well enough for Monday’s tilt at the TD Garden.
There’s no doubt that Makar will be a game-time decision. But Makar did underscore one crucial point: “I got to what’s, unfortunately, best for myself and make sure that I’m ready to go for the rest of the season.”
Those comments, while wise, underscore where loyalties lie. Makar’s loyalty lies with the Colorado Avalanche and the crucial stretch run that will lead to the postseason this spring. Here’s hoping that Makar’s ailments were nothing more than a blip on the radar screen.
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