The Colorado Avalanche announced on Saturday that star center Nathan MacKinnon has been activated off of injured reserve after spending nearly a month on the sidelines.
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MacKinnon was injured in a game versus the Philadelphia Flyers on December 5th and was initially supposed to miss 'some time.'
With 34 points (8g-26a) in 23 games this season, MacKinnon was on pace for 121 points; the highest total ever in his NHL career. After ending last season with just 65 games played, staying healthy for the rest of the season will be important for MacKinnon, as the Avs are heavily dependent on their star players.
The Avalanche host the Toronto Maple Leafs on New Year's Eve, providing a huge boost for them. The way it stands, Colorado is one point away from sitting outside the playoff picture. Injuries are the sole reason why, as they still field a dominant group when fully loaded.
Getting MacKinnon back is a major, major break for the reigning champions.
Will the Avs repeat as Stanley Cup champions?
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