Kevin Lankinen Starts Again Against Avalanche
Kevin Lankinen will make back-to-back starts tonight at Rogers Arena as the Vancouver Canucks face the Colorado Avalanche. Thatcher Demko skated Sunday morning but is expected to rest ahead of a demanding schedule.
Game Context and Player Roles
Lankinen’s last back-to-back starts were last season, with a 23-save effort in a 4-2 loss to the Montreal Canadiens and a 20-save performance the following night in a 4-3 win at Calgary. Tonight, he faces the dangerous Avalanche duo Nathan MacKinnon and Martin Necas, who have combined for 21 goals and 42 points this season.
Avs Team Status
The Avalanche hold a strong 9-1-5 record and recently delivered a 9-1 victory over the Edmonton Oilers, highlighting their offensive power.
Thatcher Demko's Status and Coach’s Comments
Demko is being carefully managed to remain rested for an intense stretch of games. The Canucks start a tough schedule Tuesday against the Winnipeg Jets before a packed road trip starting Friday in Carolina.
“Thatcher felt good, he had a good day,” said Canucks head coach Adam Foote. “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.”
Recent Performance Recap
Lankinen did not know Saturday night he would start in back-to-back games when he helped secure a 4-3 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets with a 29-save effort.
Backup Goaltender
Jiri Patera, recently recalled, will serve as the backup against the high-powered Avalanche attack.
Summary
The Canucks rely on Lankinen’s consistency amid a challenging schedule while grooming Demko for upcoming key matchups.
Author’s note: Lankinen’s back-to-back starts reflect the strategic goaltender management amid a packed and demanding season for the Canucks.