Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar suspended for hit on Seattle Kraken’s Jared McCann

Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar received a one-game suspension from the NHL following his hit on Kraken forward Jared McCann in Game 4. The hit happened during the first period, after McCann’s breakaway attempt was saved. McCann then circled to the left of the net before Makar hit him into the boards long after the shot. Although Makar initially received a major penalty, it was reduced to a minor after official review. McCann, Seattle’s leading scorer, was down on the ice for several minutes before being unable to return to the game; coach Dave Hakstol confirmed he’ll miss Game 5. Makar’s suspension comes as a huge blow to a Colorado team that’s already struggling with depth. Makar, regarded as one of the best defensemen in the world, can play heavy minutes in all situations. To replace him, Jack Johnson or Brad Hunt are the most likely candidates, with Alex Newhook, Ben Meyers and Denis Malgin all playing under seven minutes last game. Meanwhile, Bowen Byram, Samuel Girard and Devon Toews will have to play even more minutes without Makar, and Toews or Byram will move to the top power-play unit. The Kraken won Game 4 in overtime 3-2, leveling the series at two games apiece.