Avalanche Practice: Kadri Confident Team Will Respond; Makar Skates Again

May 22, 2026 - 03:40

Following a lightly attended optional practice on Thursday, the message remained the same among the Colorado Avalanche. Game 2 will be a test of character after a tough loss to open the series. Forward Nazem Kadri expressed confidence that the team will respond with a much better effort. He noted that the group has faced adversity before and knows how to handle it. The key, according to Kadri, is sticking to their system and not trying to do too much individually.

There was also a positive sign on the ice. Defenseman Cale Makar skated again with the team, taking part in drills and showing no visible limitations. Makar has been working his way back from an injury, and his presence at practice is a good indicator that he could be close to returning. While his status for the next game remains uncertain, seeing him move well was a boost for the locker room.

The Avalanche are aware that they need to clean up their play in several areas. Turnovers and missed assignments cost them in the last game, and the coaching staff has emphasized sharpening those details. The team is not panicking, but there is a clear sense of urgency. They know that a split on the road would be a solid result, and they are determined to even the series before heading home.