Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar confirmed that both Ross Colton and Miles Wood will be in the lineup for the highly anticipated matchup against the Ottawa Senators on Sunday night, despite missing practice the previous day.
“Colts (Colton) got dinged up in the middle of that game (vs Utah Hockey Club on Oct. 24) so trying to give him some time to heal, try to get him ready for tomorrow night,” Bednar elaborated after Saturday’s practice. “Woody (Wood) kind of the same thing. He got dinged up in the game as well so day off’s probably better suited for them to get ready for tomorrow. Both those guys likely try it in the morning and then we’ll get information if they can go.”
Colton has emerged as a pivotal player for the Avalanche, contributing significantly alongside superstars Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen on the team’s top line. He expressed his gratitude, stating that the dynamic duo makes it “easy” for him to perform, a sentiment that is clearly reflected in his impressive statistics. The 28-year-old forward has tallied an impressive eight points in just eight games so far this season and has demonstrated versatility by playing both center and wing in recent matchups.
Ross Colton Says Linemates ‘Make It Easy’ For Him
The Avalanche have managed to sidestep a potential injury scare, a pressing concern given the team’s injury woes over the past two seasons. Artturi Lehkonen, who has been recovering from shoulder surgery he underwent in the offseason, has begun skating with the team since the start of the season and is slated for an important evaluation on Tuesday. If he receives medical clearance, fans can expect his return to the lineup shortly.
Additionally, Jonathan Drouin, who sustained an upper-body injury during the season opener, has been making strides in his rehabilitation. Recently, he has been participating in practice while wearing a red non-contact jersey, indicating he’s closer to rejoining the roster. Bednar noted on Sunday that Drouin is now considered day-to-day, bringing hope for a swift comeback.