Canucks: Kevin Lankinen Starts Again Against Avalanche
Kevin Lankinen will start for the second consecutive game tonight at Rogers Arena, facing the Colorado Avalanche. Thatcher Demko, who skated Sunday morning, is expected to possibly play against the Winnipeg Jets on Tuesday. Recalled Jiri Patera will serve as the backup for tonight's match against the league-leading Avalanche.
Lankinen's Recent Performances
Last season, Lankinen made consecutive starts, including a 23-save effort in a 4-2 home loss to the Montreal Canadiens on March 11, followed by a 20-save win in Calgary the next night with a 4-3 result. Tonight, he will face a strong Avalanche attack led by Nathan MacKinnon and Martin Necas, who together have tallied 21 goals and 42 points.
Avalanche's Current Form
The Avalanche currently hold a 9-1-5 record and recently dominated the Edmonton Oilers with a 9-1 victory on Saturday.
Demko's Status and Coach's Remarks
To ensure Demko is rested for a demanding schedule, including a game Tuesday against Winnipeg and a busy three-game southeastern road trip starting Friday in Carolina, Canucks head coach Adam Foote hinted that Demko will likely start Tuesday.
“Thatcher felt good, he had a good day,” Foote said after Sunday’s skate. “For me, it looks like he will (play) Tuesday, and I’ll deal with it later when you guys get mad at me if he doesn’t.”
Lankinen's Outlook
Lankinen was unaware on Saturday night, after a 29-save performance helping the Canucks defeat the Columbus Blue Jackets 4-3, that he would be starting back-to-back games.
Summary: Kevin Lankinen returns to the net against a strong Avalanche team while Thatcher Demko rests for a likely start against Winnipeg amid a congested schedule.