Cale Makar in Concussion Protocol, Will Miss At Least Two Games

For the second time in two weeks, Cale Makar is in concussion protocol.

The 24 year old defenseman, who returned Saturday after missing four games due to a head injury, will once again be out of the lineup. He took more contact to the head in the game against the St. Louis Blues. On this play, however, Makar initiated the contact.

In his first game back after suffering a concussion earlier this month, Cale Makar was forced off the ice following a collision with Alexei Toropchenko. pic.twitter.com/OBtXKBrfi3

— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) February 18, 2023

Just like the last time he took a hit to the head, the concussion symptoms were delayed. He’s now feeling those symptoms, and will be out for the next two games (at least). Head coach Jared Bednar confirmed all of this on his weekly morning segment on Altitude Sports Radio.

Makar returned to the game after leaving briefly, a lot like the last time he took a hit to the head. It, once again, calls into question the NHL’s protocol after a player takes a hit to the head.

The big concern, however, is the health of the young superstar. That’s now two concussions in 11 days. Very concerning for both Makar and the Avalanche.

With concussion protocol, you are out a minimum of one week. The Avalanche have a slower schedule this week, but that still keeps Makar out of the lineup for their games on Friday and Saturday. The game on Friday is a big one, as the Avalanche take on the Winnipeg Jets, who sit right in front of them in the standings.

The earliest Makar could return is Feb. 27 against the Vegas Golden Knights, but it all depends on how he feels. Even if he feels better, don’t be surprised if he’s held out a little longer.

The Avalanche are scheduled to practice today and Thursday before heading to Winnipeg for the big matchup.

You can watch the whole update here.

Jared Bednar's injury updates on Gabe Landeskog who glided on ice this weekend and Cale Makar being back in concussion protocol#GoAvsGo @Avalanche @RadioMoser | @VicLombardi | @BrettKaneRadio | @AltitudeTV pic.twitter.com/qHPiwtRDPm

— 92.5 FM – Denver's Altitude Sports Radio (@AltitudeSR) February 21, 2023