Colorado Avalanche defenseman Tyson Barrie expected to miss 4-6 weeks

As suspected, Tyson Barrie will be out of action for the Colorado Avalanche for at least the next four to six weeks as he's expected to undergo surgery on Thursday. Barrie broke his right hand on a blocked shot in the first period of Colorado's 6-2 victory over the Arizona Coyotes on Saturday, December 23rd right before the holiday break.

Barrie had been enjoying a stellar season thus far with 27 points in 34 games. Which is good for third on the team in scoring and tied for second in the league in points from defensemen.

In Barrie’a absence, we are likely to see a bigger role for Samuel Girard, who has seen his ice time drop over the last month.

The Avalanche are expected to recall a defenseman for depth as losing Barrie puts them at six healthy defenseman. Recent recall Duncan Siemens could be an option if they don't anticipate changing any of the six they have playing now. David Warsofsky could be a veteran option who can take on that offensive role if need be. Smart money might be on Andrei Mironov as he's been improving his game in San Antonio after spending the early part of the season with the Avalanche.