Huge Update on Cale Makar Ahead of Game 1 of the Western Conference Final

Wednesday, May 20, 2026 ,

Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Maker

The status of Colorado Avalanche superstar defenseman Cale Makar had everyone in Denver on edge for the past week, after his injury in the final game of their second-round series. Today, head coach Jared Bednar confirmed the news: Makar will NOT play in Game 1 Wednesday night.

But the news is not all bad for Avalanche fans, as Bednar calls him day-to-day and says he does expect him to play at some point in the series. 

"I think he's doing a lot better," Bednar added. "I expect him back (this series)." 

Beat writer Eric Francis reported that Makar skated alone, before practice, this morning. He had missed practice on Saturday, Sunday, and Tuesday.

The Norris Trophy finalist was forced to leave the ice following a collision late in Game 5 against the Minnesota Wild with an apparent upper-body injury. He did return later as Colorado won the game and the series. He is believed to be dealing with a right arm/shoulder ailment from the hit. 

The 27-year-old Makar has registered four goals and five points through the Avs' nine games thus far in the playoffs, with a plus/minus rating of +5. He was logging 25 minutes of ice time per night.

Defenseman Sam Malinski said on Tuesday, "You can't replace him, and we're going to miss him out there. Yeah, hopefully we can still get it done without him."

Makar is a two-time Norris Trophy winner, the defending holder of the award and a finalist this year. He had another sensational regular season in 2025-26 for the Avs, posting 20 goals and 79 points with a +32 rating in 75 games. He also blocked 117 shots.

Photo: © Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

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