Summary
The Colorado Avalanche will be without their star defenseman, Cale Makar, for the next few games. Head coach Jared Bednar confirmed that Makar is dealing with an upper-body injury that will keep him off the ice for a short period. While the injury is not considered serious, the team is being very careful with his recovery. The main goal is to make sure Makar is at full strength when the playoffs begin later this month.
Main Impact
Losing a player of Makar’s skill level is always a challenge for any team. He is widely seen as the best defenseman in hockey today. However, the Avalanche are in a strong position in the standings and are likely to win the Presidents' Trophy for having the best record in the league. Because their playoff spot is secure, the team can afford to let him rest. This decision shows that Colorado is prioritizing a long postseason run over regular-season wins or individual player awards.
Key Details
What Happened
Reports of the injury first surfaced on March 31, 2026. It was described as an upper-body issue that required further evaluation. On April 1, Coach Bednar clarified the situation, stating that Makar would definitely miss some time. The team has not given an exact date for his return, but they have made it clear that they will not rush him back. They want him to be 100 percent healthy before he enters a game again.
Important Numbers and Facts
Makar has put up impressive numbers again this season. In 73 games, he has recorded 75 points. This is the fifth year in a row that he has averaged more than one point per game. He is a workhorse for the Avalanche, playing nearly 25 minutes every night. This includes more than four minutes on the power play and about two minutes on the penalty kill. Replacing that much ice time will require the rest of the defensive unit to step up significantly.
Background and Context
Cale Makar is not just a regular player; he is the engine that drives the Colorado Avalanche. At 27 years old, he has already won two Norris Trophies as the league's best defenseman and a Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoff MVP. His ability to skate, defend, and score makes him a unique threat. In the modern NHL, very few players can control the pace of a game the way he does. Because he has dealt with minor injuries in the past, the coaching staff is familiar with how to manage his workload to keep him fresh for the most important games of the year.
Public or Industry Reaction
Hockey analysts are closely watching how this affects the race for the Norris Trophy. Before this injury, Makar was in a tight race with Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets. Recent polls showed the two players were almost tied in votes. Some experts believe that missing these final games could give Werenski the edge he needs to win the award for the first time. Fans and media members are also discussing how the Avalanche power play will look without Makar. The team has struggled at times on the man-advantage this year, and losing their top quarterback will be a major test for the coaching staff.
What This Means Going Forward
With Makar out, other players will have to take on more responsibility. Devon Toews is expected to see his minutes increase even further as he takes over the top defensive duties. Veteran defenseman Brent Burns is also likely to see more time on the first power-play unit. The next few games will serve as a test for Colorado’s depth. If the team can continue to win without their best player, it will build confidence heading into the playoffs. The medical staff will continue to monitor Makar daily, but fans should not expect to see him back until he is completely ready to compete at a high level.
Final Take
The Colorado Avalanche are making the smart move by resting Cale Makar. While individual trophies like the Norris are prestigious, they do not compare to the goal of winning another Stanley Cup. By giving Makar the time he needs to heal now, the team ensures they have their most dangerous weapon ready when the games matter most. The focus remains entirely on the postseason, and a healthy Makar is the key to Colorado's success.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will Cale Makar be out of the lineup?
The team has not set a specific return date, but they expect him to miss a few games. The goal is to have him back and fully healthy for the start of the playoffs.
Who will replace Makar on the power play?
Veteran defenseman Brent Burns is the most likely candidate to take over Makar's spot on the top power-play unit while he recovers.
Will this injury affect Makar's chances for the Norris Trophy?
It might. Makar and Zach Werenski are in a very close race for the award. Missing the final games of the season could influence the voters' final decisions.