NASHVILLE — Cale Makar has already won trophies for being the best defenseman in the league and the most valuable player during the Stanley Cup Playoffs, but the start of the 2023-24 campaign looks like a new level even for him.
Makar had three assists Monday night for the Avalanche at Bridgestone Arena — one shorthanded, one on the power play and one at even strength. At the 59-minute mark, Makar was going to be the story of the game in a 3-2 victory, or maybe 4-2 with an empty-netter. Instead, the Nashville Predators staged a swift, stunning comeback with two goals in 16 seconds to prevail.