Avalanche’s MacKinnon unlikely to participate on-ice at All-Star Game

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Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon, left, is congratulated after scoring a goal by defenseman Tyson Barrie in the first period against the New York Rangers. (David Zalubowski/AP)

Colorado Avalanche star Nathan MacKinnon is unlikely to participate in on-ice activities during NHL All-Star Weekend, but will attend the festivities in San Jose.

According to Sportsnet’s Elliote Friedman, MacKinnon will fly into San Jose later on Friday.

By attending, MacKinnon will avoid the mandatory one-game suspension handed out by the league to players who choose not to participate in the festivities — see Alexander Ovechkin.

The news comes after Sportsnet’s John Shannon reported earlier this week that MacKinnon’s all-star appearance was in question as the Avalanche were being cautious with their young star, who was slated to undergo an MRI on his foot.

After a scorching start to the season, MacKinnon was voted in as a divisional captain by fans. The 2014 first-overall pick sits sixth in league scoring with 27 goals and 44 assists in 50 games.

As it stands, it’s unclear as to who, if anyone, will replace MacKinnon at all-star weekend.

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