Joel Kiviranta’s Return
In DOVE VALLEY, good news has come for the Colorado Avalanche as forward Joel Kiviranta is set to make his return to the ice after recovering from a lower-body injury. Confirming this development, head coach Jared Bednar announced on Tuesday that Kiviranta will join the team for their matchup against the San Jose Sharks on Wednesday night, which will take place at Ball Arena.
Injury Updates
Kiviranta’s recovery comes at a crucial time for the Avalanche, who lead the NHL standings.
“Kivi should be good to go by the next home stand,”
a source close to the team remarked, emphasizing the positive trajectory of his recovery.
Additionally, another injured player, Valeri Nichushkin, was observed participating in practice. Dressed in a red non-contact jersey, he engaged in skill drills but still showed signs of hesitancy in putting full weight on his injured leg. Bednar noted Nichushkin’s ongoing progress, adding a hopeful tone to the situation.
Meanwhile, Gavin Brindley was also present during the light skate session. Although he did not actively practice, he provided vocal support to Kiviranta while dressed casually. Despite his enthusiastic presence, Bednar confirmed that Brindley remains sidelined, saying,
“Still ways away. No update.”
Brindley, 21, has contributed four goals and three assists over 18 games this season. He sustained his injury during the first period of the Avalanche’s victory against the New York Rangers on November 20.
Logan O’Connor, who underwent a second hip surgery during the offseason, was initially expected to return by early November, but has faced a setback and is currently unavailable.
Lineup Adjustments
With Kiviranta’s return, the team is only required to make one additional call-up for the upcoming game. Tristen Nielsen and Jason Polin had filled in previously, which may suggest a start for Taylor Makar, who has already impressed in his three NHL appearances this season.
Kiviranta is anticipated to take a spot on the fourth line next to rookie center Zakhar Bardakov, while Parker Kelly has been elevated to the third line to partner with Jack Drury and Victor Olofsson. This adjustment is part of the ongoing lineup reshuffles necessitated by injuries to key players, making the situation reminiscent of a game of musical chairs.
Upcoming Game
As the Avalanche, holding a strong record of 16-1-5, prepare to face off against the Sharks, who currently sit at 11-9-3, fans can look forward to Wednesday’s game starting at 7 p.m. local time at Ball Arena. For updates and additional insights, interested readers might consider subscribing to The Hockey News’ newsletter or accessing their comprehensive magazine archive.
