Ivan Ivan, a forward for the Colorado Eagles, is making waves in the AHL as he works towards securing a spot with the Colorado Avalanche. Known for his uncommon name, Ivan has a unique journey from playing in the WHL and then spending years in Europe before returning to North America. After an impressive rookie season that included a spell in the NHL, he faced challenges in his second year but has bounced back, demonstrating his persistence and capability as a player. His performance in the Calder Cup playoffs could be pivotal for both him and the Eagles.

Despite initial struggles post-promotion to the NHL, Ivan’s adaptability has shone through in the AHL playoffs, where he is playing a crucial role. The Eagles are currently tied in their Calder Cup series, and Ivan’s contributions could prove essential as the team pushes for a championship. His ability to fill a bottom-six role in the Avalanche lineup next season could provide the team with valuable depth, especially as they navigate salary cap constraints.

The Colorado Avalanche faced a crowded practice session on Monday, seeing a return of eight players who had been unavailable during their last game. Goaltender Scott Wedgewood, who was activated from injured reserve, participated and is set to be an option for the team's upcoming game against the New York Rangers. Wedgewood's rapid recovery from a serious ankle injury is a boost for the team, according to coach Jared Bednar.

However, not all injury updates were positive. Samuel Girard remains sidelined due to an upper-body issue, while Valeri Nichushkin's lower-body injury is taking longer to heal than initially expected. Reports on captain Gabe Landeskog's recovery from surgery revealed that while he has made progress, he is not yet able to skate regularly.

New additions like Miles Wood and Oliver Kylington also participated but will need more time before returning to play. Meanwhile, Ivan Ivan has been cleared to return to action but will be playing in the AHL for now. With John Ludwig back from a conditioning stint, the Avalanche are managing their defensemen well despite ongoing injury challenges.

Jared Bednar, head coach of the Colorado Avalanche, expressed his frustration regarding the NHL's decision not to stop play when goaltender Scott Wedgewood was injured during a game against the Buffalo Sabres. Wedgewood sustained a leg injury after a collision, leading to a goal being scored by the Sabres while he remained down on the ice. Bednar emphasized the need for referees to protect goalies just as they do for other players, stating that the play should have been halted.

The Avalanche ultimately won the game 6-5 in overtime, but the incident has raised concerns about Wedgewood's condition, with Bednar indicating he could be sidelined for several weeks. The team is hoping for a favorable diagnosis, as they are already dealing with multiple injuries to key players.

Carolina Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour has announced that defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere will be sidelined due to an upper-body injury, although the exact duration of his absence remains uncertain. In addition, forward Jack Drury has been placed on the injured reserve list, while defenseman Riley Stillman has been recalled to the roster. Drury did not participate in practice recently, and while he is eligible to return from IR, no updates on his condition have been provided.

In other league news, Colorado Avalanche forward Jonathan Drouin is set to make his return to the ice tonight after being out for 16 games due to an upper-body injury. However, teammate Ivan Ivan will not be playing due to a similar ailment. The Columbus Blue Jackets have also reported that forward Yegor Chinakhov was absent from practice, raising concerns about his availability.

Dallas Stars coach Pete DeBoer stated that there is no significant update on forward Colin Blackwell, who may have suffered a broken nose. Meanwhile, Mason Marchment's recovery timeline is anticipated to align closely with that of Matt Dumba, who is nearing a return from his injury.

For the Florida Panthers, defenseman Niko Mikkola skated yesterday but remains out due to an upper-body issue. Coach Paul Maurice expressed confidence that Mikkola's injury is not chronic but rather a matter of pain tolerance. In Toronto, Maple Leafs defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson missed practice due to illness, while star forward Auston Matthews will miss his fifth consecutive game due to an upper-body injury. Coach Craig Berube noted Matthews' participation in practice as a positive sign, even though he will not play in the upcoming game.

Lastly, Winnipeg Jets defenseman Dylan Samberg was seen practicing in a no-contact jersey, taking shots on goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, indicating progress in his recovery.

The Colorado Avalanche faced a tough loss against the Vancouver Canucks, with Kiefer Sherwood scoring all three goals in a 3-1 defeat. Despite a strong effort from goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood, the Avalanche struggled on the power play, continuing a significant slump.

With a lack of offensive production and defensive lapses, the team is in need of reinforcements, particularly with Josh Manson potentially returning soon. The Avalanche's challenges highlight their need for improvement as they navigate a difficult road trip.