Avalanche recall a center after injury to superstar Nathan MacKinnon

The Colorado Avalanche have made a roster move.

And it might not be great news for Nathan MacKinnon’s chances of playing against the Montreal Canadiens on Saturday night.

Gavin Brindley has been recalled from the Eagles after MacKinnon exited the game against the Senators on Thursday and did not return for the third period.

We have recalled Gavin Brindley from the Colorado Eagles. pic.twitter.com/cp4n1lnIb7

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) November 13, 2026

MacKinnon took a stick to the hip in Ottawa and crumbled in pain. He initially went back to the Avalanche bench, but eventually down the tunnel to the locker room. He remained there the rest of the evening.

Head coach Jared Bednar said after the 4-3 OT loss that MacKinnon would travel to Montreal, so that’s at least a positive instead of him being sent home to Denver for further evaluation.

And MacKinnon’s injury is only half the story. Fellow superstar Cale Makar was also hurt against the Senators, mere minutes before MacKinnon.

The Avalanche already have defenseman Alex Gagne up from the Eagles, so if Makar can’t go in Montreal they have an option and don’t need to make another roster move.

Hopefully, Bednar delivers positive news on MacKinnon and Makar on Saturday morning, but we’ll have to see. Them missing a game or two would be alright — but a long-term situation with either is not ideal.

The 11-6-3 Avalanche are currently tied for second in the Central Division with 25 points.

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