More signs pointing to a Nazem Kadri return for the Avs

Colorado Avalanche forward Nazem Kadri is getting closer to a return, as he hit the ice with a stick on Thursday.

Kadri had skated a few times but he’s now doing some light stick-handling, which is a big step for the 31-year-old and Colorado’s hopes of getting him back. Kadri suffers from a hand injury after an Evander Kane cross-check in Game 3 of the Western Conference Final against the Edmonton Oilers. Kane was suspended for the play, and Kadri needed surgery.

Kadri has been one of Colorado’s best players this postseason, tallying six goals and eight assists for 14 points in 13 games this postseason after his All-Star regular season.

Kadri on the ice again today, this time with a stick and doing some light puck handling. pic.twitter.com/m0kVeR6UML

— Ryan Rishaug (@TSNRyanRishaug) June 16, 2022

Both Andre Burakovsky and Valeri Nichushkinin have been tasked with stepping up. They combined for the overtime winner in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final against the Tampa Bay Lightning. Burakovsky himself missed time in the Western Conference Final after a blocked shot stung him.

Head Coach Jared Bednar said Kadri and key penalty killer Andrew Cogliano are day-to-day before the series began.

Cogliano was also spotted during Thursday’s optional workout ahead of Game 2 on Saturday.

Ok Cogs!!!!! Days after surgery. With stick. And puck. pic.twitter.com/igJp3fPNAk

— Darren McKee (@DMacRadio) June 16, 2022

***