Avalanche's Martin Necas Poised for Game 1 Return

Star forward expected to play after missing previous game for rest

Apr. 18, 2026 at 6:04pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a hockey player in mid-motion, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the Avalanche and Kings team uniforms.A cubist interpretation of Avalanche star Martin Necas' return to the lineup for the opening round of the NHL playoffs.Denver Today

Martin Necas, the star forward for the Colorado Avalanche, is expected to return to the lineup for Game 1 of the team's playoff series against the Los Angeles Kings. Necas sat out the Avalanche's previous game against the Seattle Kraken, but he returned to a top-line role during Saturday's practice session.

Why it matters

Necas had a standout regular season, recording 38 goals and 100 points, and his presence in the lineup will be crucial for the Avalanche as they look to make a deep playoff run. His return provides a major boost to the team's offensive firepower as they take on the Kings in the opening round.

The details

After missing Thursday's 2-0 win over the Kraken, Necas is now poised to rejoin the Avalanche's top line for Game 1 against the Kings on Sunday. The 24-year-old forward finished the 2025-26 regular season with impressive totals of 38 goals, 100 points, 206 shots on net, and 85 hits in 78 appearances.

  • Necas sat out the Avalanche's previous game against the Seattle Kraken on Thursday.
  • Necas returned to a top-line role during Saturday's practice session.
  • Game 1 of the Avalanche's playoff series against the Los Angeles Kings is scheduled for Sunday.

The players

Martin Necas

A 24-year-old forward for the Colorado Avalanche who had a standout regular season, recording 38 goals and 100 points.

Colorado Avalanche

The NHL team that Necas plays for, based in Denver, Colorado.

Los Angeles Kings

The NHL team that the Avalanche will be facing in the first round of the playoffs.

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What they’re saying

“Necas (rest) is slated to play in Game 1 against the Kings on Sunday.”

— Evan Rawal, Reporter, Denver Gazette

What’s next

The Avalanche and Kings will face off in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series on Sunday, with Necas expected to be in the lineup for Colorado.

The takeaway

The return of Martin Necas to the Avalanche's top line provides a significant boost to their offensive firepower as they begin their quest for the Stanley Cup. Necas' presence will be crucial in the team's opening-round matchup against the Kings.