Colorado Avalanche defenseman faces an extended absence, leaving a significant gap in the team's defensive lineup and physical presence.
The Colorado Avalanche will be without defenseman Josh Manson for approximately eight weeks after he sustained an ankle injury, coach Jared Bednar announced Friday.
Manson sustained the injury during Wednesday's game against the New Jersey Devils. The defenseman was forced to leave the match at the 15:19 mark of the opening period after an awkward fall while trying to deliver a hit. He managed just 4:06 of ice time before his exit and remained sidelined for the rest of the game, which ultimately concluded in a 5-2 victory.
The 34-year-old has recorded four points, including one goal and three assists, in 13 games this season. Beyond his offensive contributions, Manson has been an important part of Colorado's defensive structure, leading the team with 28 hits while ranking third with 17 blocked shots.
Now in his sixth season with the Avalanche, Manson has established himself as a dependable physical presence on the blue line. He was also part of Colorado's Stanley Cup championship team in 2022, bringing valuable postseason experience and leadership to the organization.
His absence represents a considerable setback for the Avalanche. Defenseman Brett Kulak acknowledged that replacing Manson's contributions will be difficult, pointing to his leadership, physicality and experience as qualities that cannot easily be duplicated.
With Manson sidelined, Noah Juulsen is expected to receive a more consistent role in the defensive rotation. Juulsen has collected one assist in eight appearances this season while averaging 10:38 of ice time per game.
Bednar expressed confidence in Juulsen's ability to step into the lineup, praising his positive attitude, willingness to contribute and familiarity with the team. Having remained with the Avalanche throughout the season, Juulsen can take on additional responsibilities without needing time to adjust to the team's system.
Kulak emphasized that the team has dealt with significant injuries before, including absences involving Cale Makar, and understands the importance of responding collectively. Rather than expecting one player to replicate Manson's physical style, Colorado will need its defensemen to increase their overall commitment and make life difficult for opposing teams.
With an eight-week recovery timeline, Manson is expected to miss a substantial portion of the season. His return will be important for an Avalanche defense that must find a way to maintain its physical identity and consistency without one of its most experienced contributors.