Avalanche Brace for Game 1 Without Cale Makar

Cale Makar, the Avalanche’s 27-year-old Norris-trophy defenseman, sat out Tuesday’s on-ice session – his third missed practice since the series against Minnesota concluded. He left Game 5 of that series after a board collision, briefly exited the locker room with a right-arm complaint, and has since been listed as day-to-day for an upper-body issue. The team has not disclosed a specific diagnosis.

Makar Sits Out Practice on Eve of WCF Game 1 vs. Knights

Through nine postseason games, Makar has posted four goals, one assist and five points while averaging nearly 25 minutes of ice time per game – the second-most on the roster behind Devon Toews. He was on the ice for 64 % of Colorado’s even-strength goals and finished the regular season with a plus-32 rating, underscoring his role on both power play and penalty kill.

Avalanche’s Cale Makar practice injury update an ominous sign for Game 1

Head coach Jared Bednar told reporters that the team is monitoring Makar’s condition but sees no immediate cause for alarm. General manager Chris MacFarland, speaking with Bednar, said the decision on Makar’s availability will be made after Wednesday’s optional morning skate, and the lineup will be adjusted if necessary.

Cale Makar does not practice, Bednar leaves door open for Game 1 – Denver Sports

Defensemen Sam Malinski and Josh Manson said the group must absorb extra minutes and cover penalty-kill duties if Makar cannot play. The Avalanche’s defensive corps now features Brent Burns, Devon Toews, Brett Kulak, Nick Blankenburg, Jack Ahcan and others, all prepared to fill the void and maintain the team’s structure.

Makar Sits Out Practice on Eve of WCF Game 1 vs. Knights

Media accounts vary on Makar’s ailment. ESPN and Reuters describe an upper-body injury sustained after the Minnesota collision. Colorado Hockey Now attributes the problem to a shoulder issue first suffered against the Calgary Flames and aggravated by a hit from Marcus Foligno. A separate source adds a hip complaint. No official medical statement has clarified the exact condition.

Avalanche Practice: All Skaters Accounted For, Except Cale Makar

• “No, not yet” — Jared Bednar, Avalanche head coach

Cale Makar does not practice, Bednar leaves door open for Game 1 – Denver Sports

• “I don't know what to tell them. Obviously, it would be great to have him out here. You can't replace him, and we're going to miss him out there. Yeah, hopefully we can still get it done without him.” — Sam Malinski, defenseman

ESPN

• “If he can't go, it is what it is,” — Josh Manson, defenseman

ESPN

• “Looks like Cale Makar only one not on ice for Avs at practice,” — Troy Renck, Denver Post reporter

Avalanche’s Cale Makar practice injury update an ominous sign for Game 1

The Avalanche have an optional morning skate on Wednesday that will determine Makar’s game-time status. If cleared, he is expected to suit up for the opening night at Ball Arena. If not, Colorado will rely on its expanded defensive corps for the first period of the series, with the decision to be announced shortly before puck drop.

Avalanche’s Cale Makar practice injury update an ominous sign for Game 1