Head coach Jared Bednar informed reporters that Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar would be unavailable to play on Sunday against the Los Angeles Kings. Bednar also mentioned that he was uncertain whether the 25-year-old defenseman would be absent longer than Sunday’s game.
Makar was absent in the final minutes of regulation and overtime during the Avalanche’s shootout loss to the Anaheim Ducks on Saturday evening. After the game, Coach Bednar informed the media that Makar was dealing with an undisclosed issue, rendering him unavailable.
Bednar did not specify whether Makar sustained an injury during the game. In Makar’s absence, defenseman Sam Malinski will step into the lineup. With seven goals and 34 points in 24 games this season, Makar is establishing himself as an early contender for the Norris Trophy, which recognizes the NHL’s top defenseman.
Why Is He Important To The Team?
The significance of Makar to the team cannot be emphasized enough. His impact extends beyond significant offensive contributions, encompassing vital roles on both the power play and penalty kill units. With an impressive average ice time of 24 minutes and 28 seconds per game, Makar’s absence creates a substantial gap in the Avalanche’s defensive lineup.
Recent Updates
Makar participated in a limited capacity during the team’s Tuesday morning skate at Ball Arena. Notably absent from the lineup in a recent 4-1 loss to the Kings in Los Angeles, Makar, who leads the league in assists (27) and shares the lead among defensemen in points (34), is dealing with the lower-body ailment.
The 25-year-old Makar is coming off a highly productive November, earning him the league’s second star of the month. In November, he achieved franchise records for a defenseman with 21 assists and 25 points. Additionally, Colorado forward Andrew Cogliano will be sidelined for the Anaheim game due to a lower-body injury, as confirmed by coach Jared Bednar. Bednar also mentioned that forward Valeri Nichushkin, while under the weather, is expected to be available to play.
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