NHL Game 1 between the Colorado Avalanche and Minnesota Wild saw an early scare when star defenseman Cale Makar left the field following a hard hit by Marcus Foligno. The incident occurred during the first few minutes of the playoff series and instantly brought into doubt the availability of Makar for the rest of the series.
Cale Makar is still among the most valuable cards on either side of the ice of the Colorado Avalanche. And his mild excursion during a key playoff game became instant NHL news headlines within the league and created a big stir among fans and analysts of the sport.
Minnesota Wild forward Marcus Foligno delivers a massive hit on Cale Makar in NHL Game 1
Cale Makar was hit mightily by Marcus Foligno less than five minutes into NHL Game 1 between the Minnesota Wild and Colorado Avalanche.
On an early-period aggressive forecheck, Makar was caught between the boards by a Minnesota Wild forward.
The collision temporarily flung the Colorado Avalanche defenseman in the air, and then, in a fumbling and ragged way, at the glass. Makar was at the bench later, going to the locker room, and this raised the concern of the teammates and fans.
The play quickly shot up the list of the most talked-about updates of the playoffs in the NHL because of the significance of Makar to the Colorado Avalanche and the playoffs.
Cale Makar is the core of the Colorado Avalanche roster due to his offensive and defensive capabilities.
The Avalanche extensively use Makar in playoff games, particularly when they are facing a more physical opponent like the Minnesota Wild. Any period long enough to lose the former Norris Trophy winner would be a large factor in the possibility of Colorado winning in the series.
Makar also came into the match in excellent condition, following along with some notable performances during the first round of the NHL playoffs. His skating skills, puck movement and his presence in power-plays are still key in ensuring the post-season success of Colorado.
Though the team did not at once disclose some further medical information, the fact that Makar returned indicated the fact that the injury was not as severe as it had been initially feared.