MacKinnon returns vs. Sharks

Colorado Avalanche star Nathan MacKinnon returned to the lineup Thursday night against the San Jose Sharks.

MacKinnon suffered an upper-body injury against the Minnesota Wild on Sunday. The exact injury is unknown, but he appeared to hurt his hand in a fight with Wild defenseman Matt Dumba.

The 26-year-old flew back to Colorado to be evaluated earlier this week, and Bednar said his concern for the injury was "high." MacKinnon missed Tuesday's 2-1 win against the Calgary Flames.

MacKinnon has been in and out of the lineup all season due to injuries and a bout with COVID-19 but has managed an impressive 22 goals and 48 assists in 51 contests.