Canucks: Kevin Lankinen to Start Against Avalanche, Thatcher Demko Possible for Jets
Kevin Lankinen will make back-to-back starts tonight at Rogers Arena, facing the Colorado Avalanche. Thatcher Demko skated Sunday morning and might play Tuesday against the Winnipeg Jets. Meanwhile, Jiri Patera, recently recalled, will be the backup against Colorado’s high-powered offense.
Lankinen’s Recent Performance
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 the next night in Calgary. Tonight, he will face the offensive threat of Nathan MacKinnon and Martin Necas, who have combined for 21 goals and 42 points this season. The Avalanche currently hold a 9-1-5 record and are coming off a dominant 9-1 victory over the Edmonton Oilers.
Demko’s Status and Upcoming Schedule
The Canucks’ coaching staff is managing Demko’s workload carefully to keep him rested for the demanding schedule ahead. This includes Tuesday’s game against the Jets and a tough road trip of three games in four days starting Friday in Carolina.
“Thatcher felt good, he had a good day,” Canucks head coach Adam Foote said about 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 was unaware after his strong 29-save performance in Saturday’s 4-3 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets that he would be starting again tonight.
Summary
The Canucks are balancing their goaltender duties with Lankinen starting against a formidable Avalanche team, while Demko remains a likely starter for the tougher schedule ahead starting Tuesday.
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