Injuries pose challenges for playoff-bound teams

As the NHL playoffs approach, injuries are a pressing concern for several teams, notably the Colorado Avalanche and the Edmonton Oilers. Avalanche coach Jared Bednar suffered facial fractures and a corneal abrasion after being struck by a puck during a game against the Vegas Golden Knights.

He will not travel with the team for their road games and assistant coaches Nolan Pratt and Dave Hakstol will lead the squad in his absence. Additionally, defenseman Josh Manson is being evaluated for an upper-body injury sustained in the same game.

The Avalanche have already secured the top overall seed in the playoffs, but the absence of key personnel could influence their postseason performance. Meanwhile, the Oilers are also grappling with injuries, including center Leon Draisaitl, who has been sidelined since March 15 with a lower-body injury, and winger Zach Hyman, who has missed four consecutive games.

The Oilers' roster is further depleted after winger Max Jones was injured in their recent match against the Los Angeles Kings, contributing to a troubling decline in performance as they head into the playoffs.

Both teams face the challenge of navigating these injuries as they aim for success in the postseason.