Dub Valley — Joel Kiviranta appears to be making a strong recovery from his lower-body injury, as reported on Sunday. Coach Jared Bednar confirmed on Tuesday that Kiviranta is ready to return and is slated to play Wednesday night when the NHL-leading Colorado Avalanche face the San Jose Sharks at Ball Arena.
At Tuesday’s practice, Valeri Nichushkin, one of the Avalanche’s injured forwards, skated in a red non-contact jersey, participating in skill drills while showing some cautiousness on his lower body. Despite this, Bednar acknowledged positive progress. Meanwhile, rookie Gavin Brindley briefly joined Kiviranta on the ice for a light skate but remains far from returning to play. Bednar added that Brindley’s comeback is still a long way off with no new updates.
Kiviranta, 21, has contributed four goals and three assists in 18 games this season but was sidelined with a lower-body injury suffered on November 20 during Colorado’s win over the New York Rangers. Logan O’Connor, who recently underwent a second hip surgery in the offseason, has faced setbacks and hasn’t been practicing, meaning his return is also distant.
With Kiviranta back, the Avalanche anticipate only one call-up for the upcoming game. Players like Tristen Nielsen and Jason Polin have recently suited up, and Taylor Makar, who has already started three NHL games this season, could see more playtime. Kiviranta will likely play as a winger on the fourth line alongside rookie center Zakhar Bardakov. Parker Kelly, meanwhile, has been promoted to the third line with center Jack Drury and winger Victor Olofsson to cover for lineup shifts caused by injuries.
The Avalanche, holding a 16-1-5 record, will host the Sharks, who stand at 11-9-3, on Wednesday at Ball Arena, with the pregame interview starting at 7 p.m. local time.
Fan Take: Kiviranta’s return is a crucial boost for the Avalanche as they maintain their dominance in the league. For hockey fans, this signals a tighter competition ahead, with the Avalanche strengthening their lineup and potentially pushing for deep playoff success.
