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Avalanche vs. Oilers: Playoff Implications and Injury Updates (April 14, 2026)
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The Colorado Avalanche face off against the Edmonton Oilers in a crucial late-season game on April 14, 2026. With playoff berths secured, the Oilers are vying for the Pacific Division title, while the Avalanche navigate key injuries heading into the postseason. This game offers a final regular-season look at the McDavid vs. MacKinnon rivalry.
Key Insights
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Playoff Implications:: The Oilers are one point behind the Vegas Golden Knights in the Pacific Division race, making this game critical for home-ice advantage in the first two rounds of the playoffs. Why this matters: Home-ice advantage can significantly impact a team's success in the playoffs.
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Avalanche Injuries:: Colorado is dealing with a wave of injuries, including head coach Jared Bednar recovering from facial fractures and an abrasion. Key players like Cale Makar, Josh Manson, and Nazem Kadri are unlikely to play. Why this matters: Injuries test the Avalanche's depth and ability to perform at their best heading into the playoffs.
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Projected Lineups:: Both teams' projected lineups reflect key absences and strategic decisions for this matchup. Why this matters: Lineup changes can impact team chemistry and overall performance.
In-Depth Analysis
The Avalanche (52-16-11) visit the Oilers (40-30-10) with both teams preparing for the playoffs. Edmonton is aiming to secure the Pacific Division title, while Colorado is focused on maintaining their form despite significant injuries.
Colorado Avalanche:
Head coach Jared Bednar will miss the game due to injury, with assistant coaches taking over. The team is expected to rest key players like Cale Makar, Josh Manson and Nazem Kadri. The projected lineup includes:
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Artturi Lehkonen — Nathan MacKinnon — Gabriel Landeskog
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Valeri Nichushkin — Brock Nelson — Martin Necas
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Ross Colton — Nicolas Roy — Joel Kiviranta
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Parker Kelly — Jack Drury — Logan O’Connor
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Devon Toews — Sam Malinski
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Brett Kulak — Brent Burns
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Nick Blankenburg — Jack Achan
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Scott Wedgewood, Mackenzie Blackwood (Goalies)
Edmonton Oilers:
The Oilers, without Leon Draisaitl, are relying on Connor McDavid to lead their offense. Their goaltending situation remains a question mark. Projected lineup:
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Vasily Podkolzin — Connor McDavid — Matthew Savoie
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Max Jones — Ryan Nugent-Hopkins — Kasperi Kapanen
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Colton Dach — Josh Samanski — Trent Frederic
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Curtis Lazar — Adam Henrique — Jack Roslovic
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Mattias Ekholm — Evan Bouchard
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Darnell Nurse — Connor Murphy
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Jake Walman — Ty Emberson
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Connor Ingram, Tristan Jarry (Goalies)
FAQs
What is at stake for the Oilers in this game?
The Oilers are trying to win the Pacific Division and secure home-ice advantage for the first two rounds of the playoffs.
Who are the key Avalanche players missing due to injury?
Cale Makar, Josh Manson, and Nazem Kadri are unlikely to play, and head coach Jared Bednar is also out with facial injuries.
Key Takeaways
This game is crucial for the Oilers' playoff positioning, while the Avalanche are focused on managing injuries and preparing for the postseason. Keep an eye on how the Oilers' depth performs and how the Avalanche's younger players step up in the absence of key veterans.
Discussion
Will Edmonton secure the Pacific Division title, or can the Avalanche play spoiler despite their injuries? Share your predictions below! Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
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