Image Source: NHL.com
Cale Makar could make an emotional return to the Colorado Avalanche lineup Wednesday night after stepping away from the team to be with his wife, Tracy, as the couple welcomed twins. The Avalanche are scheduled to host the Dallas Stars at Ball Arena in the second game of a home-and-home matchup, creating an intriguing possibility for the star defenseman to return with what fans often call a “new-dad scoring bump.”
Breaking Cale Makar Update Before Avalanche-Stars Rematch
Makar did not play in Colorado’s 3-2 victory at Dallas on Tuesday. Avalanche coach Jared Bednar said he was unsure whether the defenseman would be available for the rematch, leaving his status as one of the biggest storylines on Wednesday’s NHL schedule.
The 27-year-old has been an important offensive force for Colorado during the opening stretch of the season. Makar has recorded seven points in five games, including three goals and four assists. He is also averaging 21:30 of ice time per game, underscoring his value in every situation.
His possible return would provide the Avalanche with more than elite puck movement and power-play creativity. Makar’s presence can change the way opponents defend Colorado, particularly against a Dallas team that already struggled to contain the Avalanche attack in Tuesday’s close contest.
A Powerful Personal Moment for Colorado’s Star Defenseman
The circumstances surrounding Makar’s absence made Tuesday’s game especially significant. While his teammates battled the Stars on the road, Makar was with Tracy for the birth of their twins. His return, whenever it happens, would mark his first game as a new father.
That personal milestone adds another layer to an already compelling matchup. Players often speak about the emotional lift that major family moments can bring, although the practical demands of returning to competition after such an important event remain considerable. Whether Makar plays or not, his family news has become one of the most notable stories surrounding the Avalanche.
Colorado has already shown it can win without him. Martin Necas scored twice in Tuesday’s victory, helping the Avalanche edge Dallas despite Makar’s absence. Still, replacing a defenseman who contributes heavily to transition play, puck possession and offensive-zone pressure is a major challenge.
Nathan MacKinnon Adds Explosive Momentum
Colorado also enters Wednesday’s game with Nathan MacKinnon producing at a remarkable pace. The star forward has collected seven points in his past three games, including two assists in Tuesday’s win.
MacKinnon leads the Avalanche with 12 points through six games, posting five goals and seven assists. He has surpassed 100 points in each of the past four seasons, including a career-best 127-point campaign in 2025-26, and his hot start suggests another dominant year could be developing.
With MacKinnon driving the attack and Makar potentially returning to the blue line, Colorado could have an explosive combination available for the rematch. The Stars will need to limit the Avalanche’s speed through the neutral zone and avoid giving their top players extended offensive-zone time.
Dallas and Colorado Rivalry Intensifies
Back-to-back home-and-home games can quickly intensify a developing rivalry. Tuesday’s contest was decided by a single goal, and the rematch is expected to feature the same urgency and physical pace.
Stars forward Tyler Seguin described the matchup as intense despite the early point in the season. He noted that games against Colorado are always fast and close, even if they have not yet reached playoff intensity.
The scheduling format gives both teams little time to make major adjustments. Dallas must respond immediately after losing at home, while Colorado will try to protect its momentum in front of its home crowd. Makar’s availability could become the decisive factor.
What to Watch in Wednesday’s NHL Game
- Cale Makar’s status: The Avalanche defenseman could return after missing Tuesday’s game for the birth of his twins.
- Nathan MacKinnon’s form: MacKinnon has seven points in his past three games and leads Colorado with 12 points.
- Martin Necas’ impact: Necas scored twice in Tuesday’s 3-2 Avalanche victory.
- Dallas’ response: The Stars will look to even the home-and-home series immediately.
- Special teams and pace: Colorado’s puck movement and transition game will test Dallas throughout the night.
The Dallas Stars visit the Colorado Avalanche at 8:30 p.m. ET Wednesday. The game will be nationally televised in the United States. For Colorado, the central question is simple: will Makar be back on the ice, and can the new father help the Avalanche secure another win over Dallas?
FAQs About Cale Makar and the Avalanche
Why did Cale Makar miss Colorado’s previous game?
Makar missed Colorado’s 3-2 win at Dallas on Tuesday so he could be with his wife, Tracy, as the couple welcomed their twins.
Will Cale Makar play against the Dallas Stars?
His status was uncertain before Wednesday’s rematch. Avalanche coach Jared Bednar had not confirmed whether Makar would return to the lineup.
How many points does Cale Makar have this season?
Makar has seven points through five games, with three goals and four assists. He is averaging 21:30 of ice time per game.
How is Nathan MacKinnon performing?
MacKinnon leads Colorado with 12 points in six games. He has recorded seven points over his past three games.
What time is the Stars-Avalanche game?
The Dallas Stars and Colorado Avalanche are scheduled to play at 8:30 p.m. ET at Ball Arena.
