Canucks: Kevin Lankinen to Start Against Avalanche, Thatcher Demko a Chance Against Jets
Kevin Lankinen will make his second consecutive start tonight for the Canucks at Rogers Arena against the Colorado Avalanche. Thatcher Demko, who skated Sunday morning, is a likely candidate to face the Winnipeg Jets on Tuesday.
Jiri Patera, recently recalled, will be the backup goaltender against the Avalanche’s potent offense.
Lankinen's Recent Performance
Last season, Lankinen started back-to-back games, recording 23 saves in a 4-2 loss to the Montreal Canadiens at home on March 11, followed by 20 saves in a 4-3 victory over Calgary the next night. Tonight, he faces the dynamic duo of Nathan MacKinnon and Martin Necas, who have combined for 21 goals and 42 points this season.
Avalanche Team Status
The Avalanche are currently 9-1-5 and are coming off an emphatic 9-1 win over the Edmonton Oilers on Saturday.
Canucks Goaltender Strategy
Coach Adam Foote emphasized resting Demko ahead of a demanding schedule that continues Tuesday against Winnipeg, followed by a three-game southeastern road trip packed into four days starting Friday in Carolina.
“Thatcher felt good, he had a good day,” Foote said of Demko’s Sunday skate. “For me, it looks like he will [play] Tuesday, and I’ll deal with it later when you [media] guys get mad at me if he doesn’t.”
Lankinen had just completed a 29-save effort in a 4-3 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets Saturday and was unaware he would be starting again so soon.
Author’s Summary
Kevin Lankinen faces a tough Avalanche team tonight, while Thatcher Demko is likely being rested for the upcoming challenging schedule, including a probable start against the Jets.