Avs' MacKinnon: "Cale Makar Might Be The Best Player In The League"

Colorado Avalanche defenseman has been turning heads since day one in the NHL and right now during the 2021-22 Stanley Cup Playoffs, he's taken his game to a whole new level. How much you ask? Makar's playing so well some of his teammates think he's the best player in the league right now.

The Avalanche swept the Nashville Predators on Monday night as Makar once again made a huge impact with one goal and two assists in the 5-3 clinching victory. After the series-clinching win, Avs forward Nathan MacKinnon had this to say about Makar's dominant performance:

He might be the best player in the league right now. The way he dominates from the back end is amazing - all season, but (in) these playoffs, he's taken another step with his leadership in the room, being more vocal, and obviously on the ice. … He might be one of the best (defensemen) to ever play by the end of his career at this rate.

Huge praise indeed as MacKinnon pumped Makar's tires full, and rightfully so. The 23-year-old is a finalist for the Norris Trophy and is the favorite to win the prestigious award. He led all blueliners with 28 goals during the regular season and ranked 2nd in points with 86. Last season Makar narrowly missed out on the Norris to New York Rangers Adam Fox, but should take home the hardware at season's end.

For now, the elite defenseman and his Avalanche teammates wait for the rest of the first round to conclude as they rest up for their next opponent.