Cale Makar performed individual on-ice drills Thursday before Avalanche practice in a signal that Colorado’s standout rookie defenseman is nearing a return to training camp.
Makar, one of three finalists for NHL rookie of the year, has not skated with the team since Saturday after being listed “unfit” to play; with league policy prohibiting teams from releasing injury/illness information about individual players.
Makar’s surprise absence, and coach Jared Bednar’s inability to comment, fueled speculation that Makar could have tested positive for COVID-19 with now four missed practices. But those fears were squashed when the 21-year-old defenseman was spotted Thursday shooting pucks at Pepsi Center.
Makar Watch update
Cale did on-ice drill work before the the start of practice, no number on jersey, and skated off. Good news, but likely won’t participate in today’s scrimmage.
Also, seems to indicate Makar did not test COVID-19 positive, since he is not quarantined. pic.twitter.com/nsVKKA554N
— Kyle Fredrickson (@kylefredrickson) July 23, 2020
“Having Cale back on the ice is a good positive sign,” Bednar said. “He’s back out there working out on his own and, hopefully, he’s able to join the group here quickly and be ready to go for when we get into Edmonton.”
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Avalanche forward Nathan MacKinnon did not practice Thursday and Bednar was unable to provide context for his absence. MacKinnon spoke with reporters Wednesday on a video conference call.
Release the Kraken. The NHL announced Thursday that its Seattle expansion team (set to begin play in 2021) has been officially named — the Seattle Kraken. Avalanche coach Jared Bednar approved: “I like it a lot.”
“It’s exciting,” Bednar continued. “Having new cities in the league and some new fan bases is always a good thing. … I can’t wait to go play there.”
Added Colorado forward Gabe Landeskog: “I think it’s awesome that we’re getting another team and especially a city like Seattle. I’ve personally never been, but I keep hearing great things about it.”
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