Cale Makar Misses Avalanche Game for Family Milestone

Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar missed the team's game against the Dallas Stars on Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026, at American Airlines Center because he and his wife Tracy were awaiting the birth of their first child, according to a team spokesman.

The absence came as Makar continued a strong start to the season, with the 27-year-old recording three goals and four assists for seven points through five games, according to The Hockey News.

According to The Denver Post's Corey Masisak, Colorado adjusted its lineup by moving forward with 11 forwards and seven defensemen for the matchup against Dallas.

Makar has become a central figure on Colorado's blue line since making his NHL debut during the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs. He has won two Norris Trophies as the league's top defenseman and earned the Conn Smythe Trophy during the Avalanche's 2022 Stanley Cup championship run.

The family milestone followed a major contract development for Makar. The defenseman recently agreed to an eight-year, $163.2 million contract extension with Colorado, according to The Hockey News, with the deal set to begin in the 2027-28 season and carrying a $20.4 million average annual value.

The Avalanche confirmed Makar's absence while the team prepared to face Dallas. The team had not announced how many additional games he could miss after the matchup.

Makar married Tracy in 2024, and the couple is preparing for the arrival of their child while the Avalanche manage without one of their top players.