The Colorado Avalanche had Josh Manson in Minnesota on May 9 as they prepared for Game 3 against the Wild, and the injured defenseman could return as early as that night. Manson was one of seven Avalanche defensemen on the trip, a sign that Colorado is leaving open the possibility he could be available when the series resumes.
The biggest question heading into Game 3 centered on Manson’s status, and the next update is expected after morning skate and coach Jared Bednar’s post-skate comments. That matters because the Avalanche are trying to sort out their blue line at the same time Nathan MacKinnon is up for the Hart Trophy for the fifth time in his career and is looking to win the regular-season MVP for the second time.
Manson’s presence with the team does not guarantee he will dress, but it does keep Colorado’s options alive at a crucial point in the series. If he is cleared in time, the Avalanche would get a veteran defenseman back with the pressure of a playoff game in Minnesota hanging over every roster decision.
MacKinnon’s Hart Trophy candidacy adds another layer to a night already carrying significance for Colorado. The center has reached this stage before, but this is his second chance to turn a strong season into a second MVP award, and the result will be watched alongside the status of Manson as the Avalanche move closer to puck drop.
For Colorado, Game 3 is about more than one lineup note. It is a test of whether Manson can make it back in time and whether the Avalanche can settle their defense before the series swings again.
