Mar 16, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Ross Colton (20) in the first period against the Dallas Stars at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

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Ross Colton Injury Update: Will Avalanche Forward Play in Game 3 Against the Stars?

Colorado Avalanche forward Ross Colton is ruled out for Game 2 due to a lower-body injury — here's when he might return.

Mar 16, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Ross Colton (20) in the first period against the Dallas Stars at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

The Colorado Avalanche took another tough hit ahead of Game 2 against the Dallas Stars, as forward Ross Colton has officially been ruled out due to a lower-body injury. The update came via the NHL media site on Monday, confirming that Colton will not be available for the second game of the first-round playoff series.

Colton, who left Game 1 after getting hurt, was described by head coach Jared Bednar as being “not great” health-wise, a vague but worrisome indication that the injury may take some time to heal. It’s a big blow for the Avalanche, especially considering how reliable Colton has been in tight playoff battles. His physical presence, defensive responsibility, and ability to chip in offensively make him a valuable asset in postseason play.

How we're lining up. #GoAvsGo | #BuiltDifferent pic.twitter.com/fYVhVvpDGS
— x – Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) April 22, 2025

In his absence, Miles Wood is set to step into the lineup. Wood, who was a healthy scratch in Game 1, brings speed and grit to the ice and will now get his shot to make an impact. He’ll be looking to bring that high-energy spark the Avalanche need, especially with the Stars pushing hard in this series.

The earliest Colton might return would be in Game 3, scheduled for Wednesday in Colorado. The team hasn’t given a clear timeline yet, but his progress will surely be monitored closely. For now, the Avalanche will have to press on without him and hope he recovers quickly enough to rejoin the fight later this week.

As the series intensifies, every player counts. While Colton’s absence is a setback, the Avalanche will rely on their depth and resilience to carry them through these crucial playoff moments. Fans will be keeping a close eye on updates, hoping to see No. 20 back on the ice sooner rather than later.

Image Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

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Anamika Shrivastava

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