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Makar Returns as Avalanche Faces 2-0 Deficit in West Final

5/25/2026

39 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Makar Returns

Cale Makar returned for Game 3 of the Western Conference Final after missing Games 1-2 with a shoulder/hip injury.
He entered the playoffs with four goals, five points and a 61.71% expected-goals-for rate at 5-on-5, the team’s best.
The Avalanche scored three goals in the two losses while Devon Toews moved to the top power-play unit.
Now trailing 2-0, the Presidents’ Trophy winners (121 points) must achieve a rare 3-0 comeback.

Summary

Bednar Reshuffles Lineup

Coach Jared Bednar announced Nazem Kadri will move to the wing for Game 3.
Coach Jared Bednar restored the defensive pairing of Sam Malinski with Brett Kulak.
Veteran Brent Burns will shift to the left side with Josh Manson, forming a new partnership.
Coach Jared Bednar kept Cale Makar’s game-day status confidential after “wait and see” comments.
Game 3 puck drop is set for 6:15 p.m. MT at T-Mobile Arena.

Summary

Makar Posts 79

Cale Makar posted 79 points (20 goals, 59 assists) in 75 games, ranking third among NHL defensemen.
He averaged 24:51 of ice time per game and earned a plus-32 rating.
He was a Norris Trophy finalist, adding to his previous wins in 2021-22 and 2024-25.
Coach Jared Bednar linked early puck-management lapses to Makar’s absence and expects improvement.
Brett Kulak said no one can copy his style.

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Makar Returns

Cale Makar returned for Game 3 of the Western Conference Final after missing Games 1-2 with a shoulder/hip injury.
He entered the playoffs with four goals, five points and a 61.71% expected-goals-for rate at 5-on-5, the team’s best.
The Avalanche scored three goals in the two losses while Devon Toews moved to the top power-play unit.
Now trailing 2-0, the Presidents’ Trophy winners (121 points) must achieve a rare 3-0 comeback.

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