Big Blow: Colorado Avalanche Hit with More Injury Woes, Star Forward Out Indefinitely

Big Blow: Colorado Avalanche Hit with More Injury Woes, Star Forward Out Indefinitely

The Colorado Avalanche have been dealt another blow, as forward Jonathan Drouin has been sidelined indefinitely due to a reaggravated upper-body injury. The 29-year-old winger is now considered week-to-week, with the team unsure of the full extent of the injury, which is believed to be related to his shoulder.

Drouin, who has been a solid addition to the Avalanche this season, has already dealt with injury troubles. He played in just five games, registering two goals and two assists. His initial injury occurred during the season opener, causing him to miss nearly three weeks before he returned to the lineup in mid-November. Unfortunately, it appears that the injury has resurfaced, forcing him back onto the sidelines.

This latest setback raises concerns not only about Drouin’s health but also about his future with the team. After signing a one-year, $2.5 million contract in the offseason, Drouin was hoping to prove himself with the Avalanche after a somewhat inconsistent tenure in Montreal. However, the persistent injury issues could now impact his role in Colorado moving forward, potentially influencing the team’s decision on whether to retain him beyond this season. While it’s still early to speculate on his future, this situation has added frustration to an already challenging season for the talented forward.

As the Avalanche prepare for a tough stretch of games, Drouin’s absence will add to the pressure. Colorado is set to face the Vegas Golden Knights, Dallas Stars, and Edmonton Oilers in a three-games-in-four-nights stretch. Despite Drouin’s injury, the Avalanche have shown resilience this season, and they’ll need to dig deep to continue competing at a high level.

In the wake of Drouin’s injury, coach Jared Bednar will likely shuffle the lines. Forward Artturi Lehkonen is expected to return to the top line, joining Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen. This trio has been impressive, and their chemistry could help make up for the loss of Drouin. Meanwhile, the second line, which includes Valeri Nichushkin, Casey Mittelstadt, and rising star Ivan Ivan, should continue to find their rhythm as they look to contribute offensively.

The Avalanche’s biggest challenge, however, could be in goal. After a tough loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning on Monday, the team is likely to lean on Alexandar Georgiev to shoulder the load. Given the tight schedule, Justus Annunen could see action in at least one of the upcoming games to give Georgiev some rest.

The Avalanche face a difficult road ahead, but with their depth and tenacity, they will look to bounce back from this latest setback and continue pushing for a playoff spot.