The good news for the Avalanche on Thursday: Cale Makar did some skating before practice.
The not-so-good news: Nathan MacKinnon didn’t practice.
Makar, a finalist for the Calder Trophy, which is awarded to the NHL rookie of the year, hadn’t been on the ice since Saturday when he took part in the first session but didn’t return for the second.
He missed three practice days in a row.
“Having Cale back on the ice is a good, positive sign,… coach Jared 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 when we get into Edmonton.…
As part of the NHL Return to Play Plan, a team isn’t permitted to disclose player injury or illness information.
Makar was Colorado’s second-leading scorer with 50 points (12 goals, 38 assists) in 57 games. He missed 13 games because of separate upper-body injuries.
“I think you guys know we’re not commenting on any injuries,… captain Gabriel Landeskog said. “I will say obviously it’s good to see guys coming back, and seeing Cale back out there, but other than that I don’t think I can comment too much on what the situation is.
“We’re excited that we keep moving forward and keep getting closer to the bubble. Everybody’s getting ready to pack up and get ready to go, so we’re super excited about that.…
Bednar said he wasn’t able to say anything about MacKinnon, who hadn’t missed any previous practices. “You know I can’t give you an update on it,… he said. “I can’t comment on it.…
MacKinnon was fifth in the league in scoring with 93 points (35 goals, 58 assists) in 69 games. He’s a finalist for the Hart (MVP), and Lady Byng (sportsmanship) Trophies and the Ted Lindsay Award (most outstanding player, voted by players).
The Avalanche are off Friday. Follow @RickS7