Avalanche’s Makar expected back in time for playoffs

“He’s doing okay,” Bednar said. “He’s gonna miss some time, though. Nothing serious.”

Bednar didn’t provide any details on what is ailing Makar. The 27-year-old suffered an upper-body injury in a game on Monday night against the Calgary Flames. With just a few minutes to go in the second period, Makar received a hit from Flames forward Adam Klapka. Despite playing a couple of more shifts before the end of the frame, Makar didn’t return for the third period.

The Calgary native exited the contest after posting three assists (the second time this season he’s accomplished that), logging 17:15 of ice time across 15 shifts and putting two shots on goal. The Avalanche ran away with a 9-2 win.

Makar had played in every game this season. In 73 appearances, he has posted 20 goals and 55 assists for 75 points, sitting third on the team in scoring and third among all NHL rearguards.

While the Avalanche became the first team to clinch a spot in the postseason, being without Makar for the next couple of weeks might hinder the team’s chances at finishing first in the Central Division and possibly clinching the Presidents’ Trophy for the first time in five years – though we’ve learned finishing with the best record doesn’t necessarily lead to playoff success.

Colorado (49-14-10) holds the best record in the NHL, eight points ahead of its division rival, the Dallas Stars.