Makar, Klingberg, Dellandrea: Key Insights from the West
Colorado defenseman Cale Makar exited Wednesday’s game against the Calgary Flames late in the second period. He did not return after sustaining an apparent upper-body injury.
Makar’s status and season impact
Makar, 27, has not missed a game this season. He has recorded 72 points in 72 games while averaging just under 25 minutes per night.
He ranks third on his team in scoring, though his totals would lead many other clubs. Colorado has already clinched a playoff berth and is closing in on the Presidents’ Trophy.
The Presidents’ Trophy would be Colorado’s first since 2020-21 and the franchise’s fourth overall. The Avalanche are one of two teams with secured playoff spots, joining Dallas.
The team said Makar left quietly after the incident against his hometown Flames. Updates will be monitored closely with hope he returns Wednesday against Vancouver.
Klingberg setback and morning skate appearance
Veteran defenseman John Klingberg practiced at morning skate, according to Curtis Pashelka. Klingberg had missed three straight games with an upper-body injury.
The 33-year-old has settled into a regular role with San Jose. He has 24 points in 54 games and logs more than 20 minutes per night.
Klingberg will reach unrestricted free agency this summer. San Jose will weigh his results and health when making off-season decisions.
Dellandrea moves to day-to-day
Ty Dellandrea’s status was upgraded to day-to-day, reported by Sheng Peng of Filmogaz.com. The forward missed 30 consecutive games with a lower-body injury.
The 25-year-old has not played since early January. He may return before the 2025-26 season ends.
Dellandrea was a high draft pick by Dallas and now serves as a bottom-six center. He kills penalties, forechecks, and wins faceoffs at 52.3 percent.
This season he has 11 points and some negative even-strength metrics. He stands 6’2″ and signed a two-year extension earlier this month.
What to watch next
Medical updates on Makar will shape Colorado’s short-term outlook. Klingberg’s practice is a positive step for San Jose.
Dellandrea’s potential return would bolster depth down the middle. These developments form key insights from the West.
- Makar: left late in second period, did not return; 72 points in 72 games;
- Klingberg: morning skate participant after missing three games; 24 points in 54 games;
- Dellandrea: day-to-day after missing 30 games; 11 points, 52.3% faceoff rate.
