SPORTS

Cale Makar misses Game One vs Golden Knights

PUBLISHED May 20, 2026, 2:26 PM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 8

Center 100%

Sources: 8

Denver — Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar will miss Game 1 of the Western Conference Final against the Vegas Golden Knights on Wednesday night with an upper-body injury, coach Jared Bednar said after the team’s morning skate; Bednar listed Makar day-to-day and confirmed the player was on the ice during the session. The absence removes a primary top-pair defender and power-play contributor from Colorado’s lineup this Wednesday, forcing Jack Ahcan into the roster and prompting adjustments to pairings and special teams; Makar has four goals and one assist this postseason, averages nearly 25 minutes of ice time, and Colorado enters the series 8-1 in the playoffs.

By Michael Grant | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

2022: Makar won the Conn Smythe Trophy as Colorado captured the Stanley Cup.
2023: Makar was suspended one game for interference during a series versus Seattle.
April 11: Vegas defeated Colorado 3-2 in overtime at Ball Arena during the regular season.
Second-round vs. Minnesota: Makar sustained hits, briefly left Game 5 holding his right arm but returned; Colorado won that game in overtime.
Wednesday morning skate: Coach Jared Bednar announced Makar will miss Game 1 and is listed day-to-day; Jack Ahcan will draw into the lineup.

News Intelligence

Makar's absence could shift the game dynamics. If you're a fan, expect changes in the Avalanche's defense and power-play strategies. Keep an eye on Jack Ahcan, stepping in for Makar. His performance could be a game-changer.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 8
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 8

Who Benefited

The Vegas Golden Knights and their depth players benefit as Colorado will need to redistribute minutes and matchups, giving reserve defensemen and penalty-kill specialists increased responsibilities in Game 1.

Who Impacted

The Colorado Avalanche suffer reduced defensive depth and potential short-term drops in power-play and matchup effectiveness with Cale Makar unavailable for Game 1.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 8
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 8
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Who Impacted

The Colorado Avalanche suffer reduced defensive depth and potential short-term drops in power-play and matchup effectiveness with Cale Makar unavailable for Game 1.