The Colorado Avalanche, emerging from a season marred by injuries, are finally looking healthier as they approach the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Star players, including captain Gabe Landeskog, participated in practice, and coach Jared Bednar expressed optimism regarding the team's readiness for Game 1 against the Dallas Stars. In stark contrast, the Stars are dealing with significant injuries, notably losing defenseman Miro Heiskanen and forward Jason Robertson, who led the team in scoring.

Heiskanen has not played since late January, while Robertson's status is questionable after he was injured at the end of the regular season. Coach Peter DeBoer emphasized the need for resilience, highlighting the nature of playoff hockey where teams often have to adapt to injuries. Colorado's depth will be key, especially with Landeskog potentially returning from a lengthy absence, which would mark a remarkable comeback given his knee surgery last May.

The NHL playoffs are set to begin, and several key players' injuries could significantly impact their teams' chances. Jason Robertson of the Dallas Stars is currently week-to-week due to an injury sustained in the final regular-season game. Coach Peter DeBoer remains hopeful that the Stars can utilize their scoring depth, which includes recent additions like Mikko Rantanen and Evgenii Dadonov, to mitigate the loss of their 35-goal scorer. This situation is compounded by the absence of defenseman Miro Heiskanen, as the Stars enter the playoffs on a tough 0-5-2 streak.

Meanwhile, the Colorado Avalanche is keeping a close eye on Gabriel Landeskog, who has been absent since their 2022 championship run due to a knee injury. After a solid two-game conditioning stint in the AHL, he scored in his second game, and coach Jared Bednar expressed optimism about his return for the playoff opener against the Stars. Other notable injury updates include Matthew Tkachuk from the Florida Panthers, who hasn't played since an injury during the 4 Nations Face-Off but may be back for Game 1 against the Tampa Bay Lightning. Lastly, Leon Draisaitl of the Edmonton Oilers, who has been sidelined since April 3, is expected to recover in time for their matchup against the Los Angeles Kings.

The Colorado Avalanche continue to defy expectations as they head into the Stanley Cup playoffs for the eighth consecutive season, showcasing a dramatically transformed roster. After battling injuries and a slow start, the team utilized a staggering 49 players this season, a number typically associated with rebuilding clubs rather than contenders. General manager Chris MacFarland orchestrated eight trades, adding key players like Mackenzie Blackwood and Brock Nelson, reshaping the roster mid-season.

This year's Avalanche are a testament to resilience and strategic foresight, as they not only overcame adversity but also emerged stronger. Their bold moves reflect a commitment to win now, as they prepare to face the Dallas Stars, who have historically been a challenging opponent. With the anticipated return of captain Gabriel Landeskog, the Avalanche believe they have what it takes to clinch the Cup once again.

The Colorado Avalanche and Dallas Stars are set for an intense playoff series, with both teams showcasing elite talent. The Avalanche, buoyed by potential returns from key players like Gabriel Landeskog, face a Stars squad that has struggled with injuries, particularly to defenseman Miro Heiskanen. While the Avalanche possess a robust forward line led by Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen, Dallas counters with its own firepower including Jason Robertson and Tyler Seguin. The goaltending matchup is pivotal; Jake Oettinger’s playoff experience contrasts with Mackenzie Blackwood’s lack of playoff games. Special teams may also play a crucial role, as Colorado boasts a superior power play while Dallas excels in penalty killing. Insights suggest that the Avalanche, despite some inconsistencies this season, have the edge in momentum heading into the series.

Taylor Makar's transition from college to professional hockey has been nothing short of exhilarating. After helping the University of Maine clinch the Hockey East tournament, excitement turned to disappointment with an early NCAA Tournament exit. Shortly after, Makar signed his first professional contract with the Colorado Avalanche and debuted with their AHL affiliate, the Colorado Eagles. The 6-foot-4 forward immediately made an impact, scoring four goals in his first four games, displaying the potential that made him a seventh-round draft pick.

Coaches are impressed with Makar's work ethic and adaptability. Aaron Schneekloth, his Eagles coach, notes his self-evaluation skills and eagerness to learn from veterans, particularly when skating alongside Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog. This rapid development in a professional setting highlights Makar's potential, making him a player to watch as he continues to grow within the organization.