Avalanche's Cale Makar to miss a few games with upper-body injury

The Colorado Avalanche will be without star defenseman Cale Makar for the next few games after he suffered an upper-body injury during Monday’s dominant 9-2 victory over the Calgary Flames. 1 2 Makar, who contributed three assists before exiting, appeared to get hurt when hit along the boards late in the second period. Despite the blow, the Avalanche cruised to an easy win, showcasing their depth.

Coach Jared Bednar provided reassurance on his Wednesday radio show on Altitude, emphasizing that the injury is not serious. The team is prioritizing rest to ensure Makar is fully healthy heading into the playoffs. With the Avalanche pushing for the league’s best record, his short absence tests their defensive resilience. 3

How the injury occurred

Makar was having another strong night against Calgary, logging 17:15 of ice time and picking up three assists, including the primary on Nathan MacKinnon’s power-play goal just before his final shift. The injury came with 5:28 remaining in the second period when Flames forward Adam Klapka delivered a hit along the boards. 1 Makar did not return for the third period, heading to the locker room for evaluation.

This marks a cautious moment for a player who routinely plays nearly 25 minutes per game across all situations. The Avalanche announced he was out with an upper-body injury, sparking immediate concern among fans given his importance to the lineup. However, early reports suggest no structural damage, aligning with the team’s decision to shut him down preventively.

Bednar addressed the hit post-game, noting Makar’s toughness but stressing the need for caution late in the season. The 9-2 thrashing of Calgary highlighted Colorado’s offensive firepower, with multiple players stepping up in Makar’s partial absence.

Historical context adds weight: Makar has battled injuries before, including missing time earlier in his career, but has always bounced back strongly. This incident echoes minor ailments that have prompted rest days, allowing him to peak for postseason play.

Coach Bednar’s update and team outlook

During his Altitude radio appearance, Bednar said, “He’s going to be OK. He’s going to miss some time here. Nothing serious, though.” 2 He elaborated, “The best thing to do is shut him down and rest him here for a few games. There’s nothing that we’re overly concerned about.”

ESPN’s Emily Kaplan and others reported the timeline as “not believed to be long term,” with a focus on full recovery before playoffs. 3 The Avalanche host the Vancouver Canucks on Wednesday night, a key game in their pursuit of the Presidents’ Trophy for the NHL’s best regular-season record.

Bednar’s measured tone reflects confidence in the roster’s depth. Veterans like Devon Toews are expected to shoulder more minutes, while Brent Burns could see top power-play time. This approach minimizes risk as Colorado sits atop the Central Division with a 49-14-10 record and 108 points. 4

The coaching staff’s strategy prioritizes playoffs over regular-season perfection. Makar’s absence, though brief, serves as a reminder of his irreplaceable role in transitions and special teams.

Makar’s stellar 2025-26 season

Cale Makar has been a Norris Trophy frontrunner again this year, tied for third among defensemen with 75 points (20 goals, 55 assists) in 73 games. 5 3 His production places him 22nd overall in league scoring, a testament to his offensive prowess from the blue line.

Key stats highlight his dominance:

• Points per game: 1.03
• Average ice time: 24:45
• Power-play points: Leads all defensemen
• Plus/minus: +29
• Shots on goal: Among top D-men

As a two-time Norris winner and Conn Smythe recipient, Makar anchors Colorado’s elite defense. His chemistry with Nathan MacKinnon has fueled the Avalanche’s league-leading attack.

Even in the injury game, Makar’s assists showcased his playmaking. Missing time could affect his Norris race against Zach Werenski, but voters recognize his full-body impact.

At 27, Makar is in his prime, blending skating, vision, and shot-blocking (100 blocks this season).

Impact on the Avalanche’s defense and playoffs push

Colorado’s defense faces a test without Makar, who logs heavy minutes on the power play, penalty kill, and even strength. Devon Toews steps into the top pairing, potentially paired with Samuel Girard or Calvin de Haan. 3

The Avalanche’s depth has been a strength this year, with 108 points and the first playoff clinch. Their nine-game win streak underscores resilience. Against Vancouver, expect adjustments like more ice for younger blueliners.

Playoff implications are minimal given the short timeline. Resting Makar now ensures he’s fresh for a deep run, where his 2022 Conn Smythe performance proved pivotal.

Brent Burns, recently acquired, could fill power-play voids effectively. Colorado’s five-on-five dominance persists regardless.

Fan reaction has been measured, buoyed by Bednar’s optimism and the team’s position.

Looking ahead to recovery and postseason

Makar’s expected return before playoffs positions the Avalanche as Stanley Cup favorites. Their Western Conference lead and star power (MacKinnon, Rantanen) make them formidable. 4

For more on Makar’s career highlights, check his player profile on NHL Insight.

The focus shifts to Vancouver, where a win clinches home-ice advantage throughout. Updates from NHL.com status report will track progress. 1

In summary, this precautionary rest reinforces Colorado’s championship blueprint: protect stars for April glory. Makar’s quick recovery bodes well for another deep playoff charge, where his elite play could again define the Avs’ fate.