Cale Makar is trusted to anchor the Avalanche’s top power-play unit before he can legally buy a round of beers for his teammates.
The rosy-cheeked 20-year-old is the best example of a developing theme this NHL season in Colorado: No need checking IDs at the Avs’ bench, with ice time a reflection of ability, and certainly not birth date.
“Even though they’re young, they have bought into what we’re trying to do and I believe in their ability,” coach Jared Bednar said. “They are coachable guys who tend to build trust quickly for me.