Colorado Avalanche coach Jared Bednar has given a positive update on the injury status of Artturi Lehkonen and Sam Malinski. Both players, who were surprise omissions from Game 4 due to upper-body injuries, could feature in Game 5.
Lehkonen and Malinski’s Possible Return
Lehkonen and Malinski were both absent from the Avalanche lineup just 40 minutes before puck drop in Game 4 against the Minnesota Wild. Despite participating in the morning skate in St. Paul, they were ruled out with upper-body injuries.
Joel Kiviranta and Jack Ahcan stepped in to replace them. Josh Manson also returned from injury in the same game.
Speaking on Wednesday, Bednar indicated that Lehkonen and Malinski might be available for Game 5. He said they could both “possibly” play.
Bednar’s comments suggest that their injuries are not long-term. If either player was expected to be sidelined for weeks, Bednar would not be considering them as options.
Impact on the Avalanche
Lehkonen’s potential return would be a significant boost for the Avalanche. In the seven playoff games so far, Lehkonen has six points (three goals, three assists), tying him for fifth on the team. Malinski has contributed one goal and two assists in the playoffs.
It remains to be seen whether either player will be fit enough to play. A final decision will be made closer to the game.
- Lehkonen and Malinski both out with “upper-body” injuries before Game 4.
- Jared Bednar said they could both “possibly” play in Game 5.
- Lehkonen has six points in the seven playoff games.
Looking Ahead to Game 5
The Avalanche are currently leading the Wild three games to one in the second round. A victory in Game 5 would see Colorado advance to the Western Conference Final for the first time since 2022. They would then await the winner of the Golden Knights and Ducks series for a shot to go the Stanley Cup Final.
Game 5 is a potential series-clincher. Colorado will be hoping to have both Lehkonen and Malinski available.