Colorado Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar shared that Cale Makar and Bowen Byram are both banged up, but one of the two will play in the team’s Wednesday matchup.
Makar was on the receiving end of a dangerous play by the Buffalo Sabres’ Kyle Okposo and left the ice briefly. He was able to return for the third period but is still banged up enough to bring his availability into question. Makar has continued his dominant career into this season, netting three goals and nine points through eight games so far this season. The former Norris Trophy winner is undeniably one of the best defenders in the NHL, making even one game without him something tough to stomach.
Byram hasn’t carried the same esteem as Makar this season, though he’s still managed to make impacts through eight games on the season. He’s tallied two points, 14 penalty minutes, and a +2 on the year. Byram’s next game will be his 100th NHL game – an impressive milestone for the former fourth-overall selection. The 22-year-old has managed 45 points and 87 penalty minutes in the 99 career games he’s played so far.
This announcement brings some clarity to Colorado calling up Caleb Jones earlier today. The veteran of 217 NHL games failed to establish himself in Colorado’s training camp, although he has managed four points in eight AHL games this season. It’s the first time that Jones has played in the AHL since 2019-20, when he tallied 11 points in 14 AHL games. He will likely serve as the top fill-in option for an Avalanche team that isn’t currently carrying any other extra defenders. If Jones does slot in, Colorado will become the third NHL team that he’s played for.
Byram can’t stay healthy, He’s becoming expendable.
I actually agree. Can’t believe it. Happy Halloween.
However, multiple injuries keeps his RFA contract years down and reasonable and when he does play he’s quite good.
However, if an opportunity arises Joe should consider moving him for a similar, less talented but durable player
Joe is no longer the GM, It’s now MacFarlane.