8 Cale Makar D

Avalanche's Cale Makar: Adds helper, physicality

Makar has a goal and four helpers over seven postseason games to start his career, but Thursday marked the first time he had posted more than one hit in a game. Obviously, the offensive skill comes first with the first-round pick from 2017, but a little extra in the non-scoring stats is sure to appeal to fantasy owners as well.

Avalanche's Cale Makar: Offers assist

Makar has a goal and two helpers in four postseason games since joining the Avalanche from the University of Massachusetts. He's added seven blocked shots and averaged 18:00 per game.

Avalanche's Cale Makar: Supplies helper

Makar joined the lineup for Game 3, and he produced a goal and a helper as well as six blocks in his three appearances. He went plus-4 in that span as the Calgary native helped the Avalanche eliminate his hometown team.

Avalanche's Cale Makar: Instant impact in first game

He is the first defenseman and seventh player overall to make his debut in the playoffs and score a goal in his first game. After winning the Hobey Baker Award on Friday, Makar has wasted no time in helping the Avalanche in their postseason run -- against his childhood hometown team, no less.

Avalanche's Cale Makar: Set to make NHL debut

This news isn't a huge surprise after Makar was signed out of the University of Massachusetts on Sunday. The Avalanche were dealt an injury blow, however, with Samuel Girard out with an undisclosed injury. In his stead, Makar is expected to enter the lineup on the third defensive pair with Patrik Nemeth, and should see some power-play time on the second unit. The recently-crowned Hobey Baker winner will have huge expectations heading into his professional debut for Game 3.