Avs' Grubauer, Rantanen, Donskoi to return from COVID-19 absences vs. Sharks

The Colorado Avalanche are set to receive some major reinforcements.

Goaltender Philipp Grubauer, along with forwards Mikko Rantanen and Joonas Donskoi, will return from their COVID-19-related absences for Friday's tilt versus the San Jose Sharks, head coach Jared Bednar said, according to The Athletic's Peter Baugh.

Grubauer missed more than two weeks after contracting the virus. The 29-year-old is having a career year, posting a 25-8-1 record to go with a .920 save percentage and 2.00 goals-against average.

Both Rantanen and Donskoi are returning from four-game absences. Rantanen - who ranks fourth in the NHL with 26 goals this season - underwent contact tracing while Donskoi tested positive. Donskoi has registered 28 points in 2021.

The Avalanche have lost three contests in a row entering Friday. They sit six points behind the West-leading Vegas Golden Knights with a game in hand.

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