An injury update on star defenseman Cale Makar offered both uncertainty and cautious optimism ahead of the playoffs.
Following a dominant 9–2 victory over the Calgary Flames, concern quickly shifted among Colorado Avalanche fans toward the status of star defenseman Cale Makar.
Makar recorded three assists in the win, including the primary helper on Nathan MacKinnon’s power-play goal late in the second period. However, the defenseman absorbed a hit from Flames forward Adam Klapka with 5:28 remaining in the frame and did not return for the third period, marking the end of his night.
Head coach Jared Bednar confirmed post-game that Makar is dealing with an upper-body injury but declined to provide a specific timeline for his return.
Medical insight from Dr. Harjas Grewal suggests the injury could involve a separated shoulder at worst. Encouragingly, NHL insider Pierre LeBrun reported that the injury is not believed to be serious, with the expectation that Makar may miss a handful of games to ensure full health ahead of the postseason. ESPN's Emily Kaplan also echoed the same sentiment.
With just six games remaining in the regular season, it appears increasingly likely the Avalanche will proceed cautiously, prioritizing Makar’s recovery in preparation for the playoffs, which begin April 18.
Makar's Impact Remains Significant
The potential absence of Makar, even in the short term, underscores his importance to Colorado’s success. Widely regarded as one of the NHL’s premier defensemen, Makar combines elite offensive production with strong two-way play.
Entering Monday’s contest, he had compiled 20 goals and 72 points in 71 games. On March 28, he became the fourth-fastest defenseman in league history to reach the 500-point milestone. His recent body of work includes back-to-back 90-point seasons and a 30-goal campaign in 2024–25, while 2025–26 marks his third consecutive 20-goal season and fourth overall.
Avalanche Eye Presidents’ Trophy
As of March 31, the Colorado Avalanche hold the NHL’s top record at 73-49-14, maintaining an eight-point cushion over the Dallas Stars.
With the regular season winding down and the Stanley Cup Playoffs on the horizon, Colorado remains firmly positioned to secure the Presidents’ Trophy, further solidifying its status as a leading contender for the Stanley Cup.
