The Colorado Avalanche received some unfortunate injury news on Saturday. Head coach Jared Bednar revealed that forward Joel Kiviranta will be sidelined indefinitely after suffering a lower-body injury in the team’s recent matchup against the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Reporter Aarif Deen quoted Bednar as saying,
“He got hurt last game. He’s going to miss some time. I don’t have a solid timeline. It’s going to be weeks.”
The update isn’t particularly encouraging. Kiviranta, who enjoyed a career-best season in 2024–25 with 16 goals in a depth role, had become a steady contributor in Colorado’s bottom six. However, he’s been off to a slow start this season, still searching for his first point through five games. Thankfully for the Avalanche, the team’s top forwards have been carrying the offensive load, helping them to a strong 4-0-1 start.
The injury comes at an inopportune time for the 29-year-old, who signed a one-year, $1.25 million contract this offseason after some uncertainty about his future. A lengthy absence could complicate his chances of maintaining a regular role once he’s ready to return.
Bardakov Gets His Chance
Kiviranta’s injury could open the door for Russian forward Zakhar Bardakov to make his mark. The 24-year-old impressed during training camp and was initially viewed as the frontrunner for the fourth-line center spot before Parker Kelly claimed the job. With Kiviranta sidelined, however, Bardakov is likely to slot into the lineup — possibly as the 4C, with Kelly shifting to the wing.
Bardakov spent last season with SKA St. Petersburg in the KHL, where he recorded 17 goals and 35 points in 53 games. At 6’2” and 209 pounds, he brings size, speed, and skill — attributes that could strengthen Colorado’s bottom six.
If Bardakov performs well in his first few games, he could quickly earn Bednar’s trust and carve out a consistent role. For now, the Avalanche will hope he can seize this opportunity and help stabilize the lineup while Kiviranta recovers.