Former Avalanche Forward Suffers Major Setback In Detroit

A familiar face from the Colorado Avalanche’s 2022 Stanley Cup championship run is facing an extended absence after a hard hit left Detroit Red Wings forward J.T. Compher sidelined.

Compher was injured Sunday during Detroit’s 3-2 loss to the Winnipeg Jets after being driven into the boards by Jets defenseman Tyrel Bauer in the first period. He did not return to the game, and the collision was followed by a fight between Bauer and Red Wings defenseman Keegan Kolesar.

While that altercation quickly drew attention, Detroit’s bigger concern was the health of Compher. Red Wings head coach Todd McLellan had no significant update Wednesday, saying Compher was not skating and remained day-to-day. The Red Wings have since placed him on injured reserve, meaning he will miss at least 10 games.

For Avalanche fans, Compher’s absence is an opportunity to remember just how valuable he was during Colorado’s championship years.

Selected by the Buffalo Sabres in the second round of the 2013 NHL Draft, Compher did not make his NHL debut until March 2, 2017, when he suited up for the Avalanche. He went on to spend parts of seven seasons in Colorado, appearing in 423 regular-season games and recording 88 goals and 106 assists for 194 points.

But Compher’s impact went beyond his regular-season production. During Colorado’s 2022 Stanley Cup run, he became one of the team’s most reliable depth contributors. He appeared in all 20 playoff games, scoring five goals and adding three assists.

Those eight points only tell part of the story. Compher consistently delivered timely goals and important plays throughout Colorado’s run to the championship, establishing himself as one of the roster’s most dependable depth pieces.

After the 2023 season, Compher left Colorado in free agency and signed a five-year, $25.5 million contract with Detroit. He has not replicated the success he enjoyed with the Avalanche, but his contributions to Colorado’s championship run remain an important part of his legacy.

Now, the Red Wings will have to move forward without him as they await further clarity on his injury.