All signs point towards Kadri being at least a game-time decision for Game 4
Nazem Kadri's injury and attempted rapid recovery continues to be an interesting storyline to follow in the Stanley Cup Finals. Kadri was injured in Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals against the Edmonton Oilers after getting hit from behind by Oilers forward Evander Kane. The NHL player safety department gave Kane a one-game suspension while Kadri, on the other hand, suffered a thumb injury that led to a surgery.
TSN's Darren Dreger reported that Kadri would miss the remainder of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, but since he's gotten his surgery, Kadri has been skating again and has taken shots. Avalanche Head Coach Jared Bednar has said Kadri is day-to-day with his injury and would not commit to shutting the 31-year-old down for the playoffs.
Kadri has missed four straight games due to his injury, but that looks like it could all change. Kadri was spotted this morning skating with the team's primary group and doing skill handling drills. If Kadri does return to the lineup for Game 4, he will be a big boost to the Colorado offence.
Jared Bednar said today that he believes Kadri will be an option. Kadri was playing excellent hockey before his injury. In 13 games this postseason, he has six goals and eight assists for 14 points.
With Kadri inching closer to a return to the lineup, I think he could be an absolute game-changer for the Avs if we see him play again this postseason. He might even be the piece that pushes the Avs over the top.
