The Colorado Avalanche will be without a key player as the top team in the NHL returns from the Olympic break.
MacKinnon, who played for Team Canada at the Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, appeared banged up after a heavy collision with France’s Pierre Crinon during the preliminary round. The 30-year-old did not miss any games throughout the tournament.
MacKinnon has played a key role in Colorado’s success this season, racking up 40 goals and 93 points in 55 games this season. The 37-9-9 Avalanche sit first in the NHL, with six points separating them and the second-place Tampa Bay Lightning.
Also returning for the Mammoth is third-year Logan Cooley, who is playing for the first time since Dec. 5. The 21-year-old has 14 goals and 23 points in 29 games this season.
