Cale Makar is currently considered day-to-day and his status for tonight’s Colorado Avalanche vs. Vancouver Canucks game at Ball Arena remains uncertain after suffering an upper-body injury in the previous matchup.
The injury occurred during Colorado’s 9–2 win over Calgary, where he still managed to record three assists before exiting in the second period. He left that game early after taking a hit and did not return.
Reports indicate the concern stems from an upper-body issue, with early speculation ranging from minor discomfort to a possible shoulder injury, though multiple insiders have suggested it is not believed to be serious at this stage.
How did Cale Makar get injured?
Cale Makar suffered an upper-body injury after taking a hit during the Colorado Avalanche’s 9–2 win. The play occurred late in the second period when the star defenseman was checked by Flames forward Adam Klapka, after which he briefly stayed in the game but was visibly affected and did not return for the third period.
Cale Makar #8 of the Colorado Avalanche in 2026 (Source: Justin Berl/Getty Images)
Before leaving the ice, the defenseman had already been one of the standout performers of the night, recording three assists and continuing his dominant offensive form from the blue line.
However, the hit led the team’s medical staff to pull him out for precautionary evaluation, and he was officially ruled out for the remainder of the game with what the club labeled an upper-body injury.
When could Cale Makar return to play?
Cale Makar is currently considered day-to-day, meaning his return to the Colorado Avalanche could come as soon as the next game, but it will ultimately depend on how he responds to treatment and pregame testing.
Medical updates suggest the organization is treating the situation cautiously, especially with the playoffs approaching and the Avalanche in a strong position in the standings.
For now, his status remains a true game-time decision heading into upcoming matchups, including the scheduled clash against the Vancouver Canucks, with final confirmation expected closer to puck drop depending on warmups and coaching evaluation.
How has Cale Makar performed this season?
Cale Makar is once again delivering a Norris Trophy–caliber season for the Colorado Avalanche, posting 66 points (19 goals and 47 assists) in 57 games so far in 2025–26.
The elite defenseman remains one of the most productive blue-liners in the entire NHL, ranking near the top among defensemen in both points and plus-minus while playing heavy minutes in all situations.
His offensive impact has been especially consistent in recent weeks, including multi-point performances that have helped the Avalanche maintain one of the strongest records in the Western Conference.
The Avalanche consistently control possession and scoring chances with him leading the breakout game and stabilizing defensive matchups against top opponents, reinforcing why he is considered a central piece of their Stanley Cup aspirations heading into the final stretch of the regular season.
