Colorado Avalanche forward Nathan MacKinnon has been out of the lineup with an upper body injury since the 5th of December, but is apparently inching closer to a return. How does this impact the Leafs? Well, There is reportedly a possibility of MacKinnon suiting up in tomorrow's game against the Buds.
Earlier in the week, Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar, announced that their star forward was on the verge of returning "this week". They still had 2 games remaining after losing 6-3 to the Arizona Coyotes, one against the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, and another against the Leafs on Saturday. Before exiting the game against the Philadelphia Flyers on the 5th of December, MacKinnon had 34 points in only 23 games.
He was seen practicing today in a non-contact jersey and Bednar announced afterwards that he is getting "very close". He would be right on track with his 4 week timeline and the Avalanche, who have dealt with injuries all season, would welcome back their elite pivot with open arms, especially against the vaunted Maple Leafs lineup.
