Canucks: Kevin Lankinen to Start Against Avalanche
Kevin Lankinen will start in net for the second consecutive game tonight at Rogers Arena, facing the Colorado Avalanche. Meanwhile, Thatcher Demko skated Sunday morning and remains a possibility to start Tuesday against the Jets.
Goaltending Decisions
Lankinen, who made back-to-back starts last season, will be backed up by recalled Jiri Patera against the high-powered Avalanche. Last season, Lankinen recorded 23 saves in a 4-2 home loss to the Montreal Canadiens on March 11, followed by a 20-save effort in a 4-3 victory the next night in Calgary.
Challenge Against Top Players
Tonight, Lankinen will be tested by Avalanche stars Nathan MacKinnon and Martin Nečas, who together have scored 21 goals and registered 42 points this season. The Avalanche hold an impressive 9-1-5 record and recently dominated the Edmonton Oilers 9-1.
Demko’s Status and Upcoming Schedule
Coach Adam Foote noted that Demko is being rested ahead of a demanding stretch that includes Tuesday’s game against Winnipeg and a tough four-day, three-game road trip starting Friday in Carolina.
“Thatcher felt good, he had a good day. 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.” — Adam Foote
Lankinen was unaware Saturday night, after a 29-save performance in a 4-3 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets, that he’d be starting back-to-back games.
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