Mar 28, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA; Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar (8) during the third period against the Winnipeg Jets at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Avalanche's Jared Bednar Provides Update on Cale Makar's Injury

Originally posted on Breakaway on SI | By Deepanjan Mitra | Last updated Apr 1, 2026 11:51 AM ET

The Colorado Avalanche received encouraging news earlier today regarding star D-man Cale Makar. Head coach Jared Bednar confirmed during his radio show on Altitude that Makar will miss a few of their upcoming games with an upper-body injury but expects a full recovery.

The defenseman suffered the injury during their 9-2 victory over the Flames earlier this week. The two-time Norris Trophy winner left the game after the second period and did not return for the final frame despite the comfortable lead.

Bednar downplayed the severity of the injury while announcing the decision to rest the franchise cornerstone. The coaching staff elected to take a cautious approach with the playoffs approaching and the team's position in the standings largely secured.

Injury Timeline and Details

The incident occurred late in the second period when Makar took a hit from Flames forward Adam Klapka along the boards. He finished that shift and took two additional shifts before the period ended but never returned to the bench.

Despite this, Makar managed to provide three helpers to his teammates before departing the contest. His final assist came on a Nathan MacKinnon power-play goal with 35 seconds remaining in the second period, bringing his season total to 75 points through 73 games.

Bednar addressed the injury this morning during his weekly radio appearance. The head coach emphasized that shutting down Makar represents the best course of action rather than risking further complications by rushing him back into the lineup.

President's Trophy Push Continues

The Avalanche will host the Vancouver Canucks tonight as they continue chasing the league's best record. Colorado will enter the contest with a commanding lead in the standings and strong positioning to secure the Presidents' Trophy.

The franchise can afford to exercise caution with Makar given their cushion at the top of the Western Conference standings. The decision to rest the star defenseman reflects the organization's focus on long-term health over short-term gains during the final weeks of regular-season play.

Devon Toews will likely absorb increased ice time during Makar's absence. The defensive corps will need to compensate for losing a player who averages nearly 25 minutes per game including significant power-play and penalty-kill responsibilities.

Elite Season Production

Makar ranks third among all NHL defensemen with 75 points this season. His 20 goals and 55 assists represent his fifth consecutive campaign averaging at least a point per game. While many expected him to produce even more points, a mid-season slump hurt his chances at triple-digit figures.

The 27-year-old defender won his second Norris Trophy last season after recording 92 points. He has established himself as one of the premier offensive defensemen in hockey while maintaining strong defensive responsibilities. And if the Avalanche wants to win their fourth Stanley Cup, a well-rested and healthy Makar is necessary before the playoffs start.

This article first appeared on Breakaway on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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