Aarif Deen
It sounds like the Avalanche are preparing to play Game 4 without veteran defenseman Josh Manson. If that’s the case, Nick Blankenburg will make his playoff debut, likely slotting in on the left side of the third pair with Brent Burns.
Manson played less than six minutes in Game 3 after sustaining an upper-body injury in the first period. He was hit along the boards by the Los Angeles Kings’ bench by defenseman Joel Edmundson. The brunt of the impact with the boards was in his midsection rib area, largely in a portion that isn’t well protected.
He attempted a return in the second period but it only lasted 40 seconds.
Bednar said after Saturday’s practice that Manson is unlikely to dress, stating that the defenseman is sore. Bednar told reporters he’s going to take it day by day with Manson.
The Avs are one victory away from advancing to the second round. If they can complete the sweep on Sunday, it’ll give them ample time to allow Manson to rest, along with some of the other regulars who are dinged up and still playing.
Game 4 at Crypto.com Arena is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. MT.
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