Cale Makar issues urgent call to action ahead of Avalanche’s do-or-die Game 6 vs Stars

The Colorado Avalanche are staring down the brink of elimination in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs, and Cale Makar knows it’s time to lead by example. With Game 6 against the Dallas Stars looming, the Norris Trophy winner has delivered an unfiltered self-assessment—and a rallying cry.

The Avalanche find themselves needing a win to keep their season alive. While Makar is one of the top defensemen in the league, his recent performances have not matched his usual standard. This is a crucial moment for Makar to return to form, as the Avalanche need him more than ever.

“I’ve got to be a lot better,” Makar admitted in comments reported by NHL.com’s Nicholas J. Cotsonika. “There have been glimpses where I’ve been pretty good, but for me, it’s not always about the points. It’s about being solid on both ends of the ice. It starts with my feet. When I get going, I think we can generate momentum, especially from the back end. There’s a lot I can improve on, and it’s do-or-die now—we’ve got to step it up.”

Makar under the microscope

The spotlight is firmly on Makar, whose offensive production has tapered off just when his team needs it most. Through five games in the series, the star defenseman has registered just two points—none at even strength—and has gone scoreless in the last three contests. For a player often praised as the league’s most dynamic blue-liner, the drought is as untimely as it is uncharacteristic.

Nathan MacKinnon #29 of the Colorado Avalanche celebrates after scoring a goal against the Dallas Stars in the second period of Game Five of the First Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at American Airlines Center at American Airlines Center on April 28, 2025 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images)

The Avalanche haven’t reached the Western Conference Final since their 2022 championship run. Last season, their hopes were dashed in the second round—ironically, also by Dallas Stars. This year, the narrative feels eerily familiar unless a turnaround starts now.

see also

Avalanche’s Gabriel Landeskog makes honest admission after Game 5 loss to Stars

Avalanche: A defining moment

Colorado is banking on its core—and especially its leaders like Makar—to ignite the spark. More than just a defensive anchor, Makar’s skating and playmaking are essential to the team’s rhythm and confidence. His candid comments underscore the urgency, but words will mean little if not backed up on the ice. Thursday night’s Game 6 won’t just decide Colorado’s playoff fate.