Colorado Avalanche fans are holding their breath as injuries continue to plague their team. Defenseman Josh Manson and forward Joel Kiviranta are reportedly close to returning to action, offering a glimmer of hope for the struggling Avalanche. Meanwhile, forward Mark Stone's status remains uncertain after he left last night's game early, just a day after exiting Friday's contest in the first period. The team's injury woes are compounded by the news that the Sabres, their opponents in last night's game, welcomed back forward Sam Carrick, who had been sidelined due to illness. As the Avalanche look to bounce back, the health of their key players will be a major factor in their chances of success.


Avs Josh Manson and Joel Kiviranta are close. Mark Stone out last night after leaving Friday's after the first. Sam Carrick returned for the Sabres.