Colorado Avalanche coach Jared Bednar put star defenseman Cale Makar in a difficult position by publicly stating the Norris Trophy winner’s return from injury would be up to Makar alone. The comments came after Game 2, with the Avalanche trailing the Vegas Golden Knights 2-0 in the series. With Makar sidelined, the Avs have struggled, losing both games by an average of over two goals per contest.
During a press conference, Bednar was asked about Makar’s status and responded: “It’s gonna be Cale’s decision on if he’s coming back. He’s doing all the work. I don’t make that decision for him.” The remark sparked backlash from fans and analysts who felt it shifted responsibility onto Makar and potentially undermined team morale.
Social media reactions were immediate and strong. Many Avalanche supporters felt the comments put pressure on Makar to return before he is medically cleared. One fan wrote, “That’ll be a decision that Cale and our medical staff make. When he’s ready, he’s ready.” Another added, “Talk about throwing him under the bus.” Some compared Bednar unfavorably to former coach Dan Muse, with one user noting, “I bet Dan Muse would never make a comment like that.”
Josh Yohe of The Athletic weighed in, saying, “Were I Cale Makar, I don’t think I’d appreciate this comment.” Yohe also clarified that while the statement may be true, it didn’t support a Hall of Fame-caliber player during a high-pressure playoff moment.
Makar has been a key part of the Avalanche’s success this season, averaging 22:34 minutes of ice time per game, including 5:12 per game in the defensive zone. The team’s defensive structure has faltered in his absence, with a plus-minus rating of -15 in the two games without Makar. His return could be a major factor in the series outcome.
With the Avalanche facing a potential elimination in Game 3, the focus is on whether Makar will be available and how Bednar’s comments may impact team chemistry. Makar is set to become an unrestricted free agent after next season, adding extra scrutiny to his role on and off the ice.
Game 3 is scheduled for May 25, and the Avalanche will need all hands on deck if they want to avoid a quick sweep.
The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the San Antonio Spurs 118-103 in Game 3 of their first-round series behind a balanced attack and relentless defense. The win extends OKC's series lead to 2-1 and puts San Antonio on the brink of elimination in the best-of-seven matchup.
just now
John Blackwell has withdrawn from the 2026 NBA Draft and will return to collegiate basketball by transferring to Duke. The 6-foot-4 guard will play his senior season with the Blue Devils after spending the last three years at Wisconsin.
just now
The United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) enters the 2026 World Cup with high expectations and a coach in Mauricio Pochettino who is expected to deliver results. As co-hosts of the tournament, the U.S. will be under intense scrutiny, and the question remains: how far must Pochettino take the tea
3 hours ago
The Edmonton Oilers are growing increasingly frustrated after the Vegas Golden Knights refused to allow them to speak with Bruce Cassidy, a move that echoes a past incident between the two Pacific Division rivals. With the Stanley Cup playoffs in full swing and John Tortorella now steering Vegas tow
4 hours ago