Canucks: Kevin Lankinen to Start Against Avalanche
Kevin Lankinen will make consecutive starts tonight against the Colorado Avalanche, while Thatcher Demko remains a possible starter for Tuesday’s game against the Winnipeg Jets. Demko skated on Sunday morning, but the Canucks have chosen Lankinen to start again at Rogers Arena. Recalled goalie Jiri Patera will back him up against the Avalanche’s high-powered offense.
Recent Performances
Last season, Lankinen started two games in a row, making 23 saves in a 4-2 loss to the Montreal Canadiens on March 11, followed by 20 saves in a 4-3 victory over Calgary the next night. Tonight, he faces the Avalanche’s potent scoring duo of Nathan MacKinnon and Martin Necas, who have combined for 21 goals and 42 points this season. Colorado holds a strong 9-1-5 record, fresh off a dominating 9-1 win over Edmonton on Saturday.
Goaltender Strategy Amid Busy Schedule
Coach Adam Foote indicated that Demko is being carefully managed to stay rested for the demanding schedule ahead, including Tuesday's game against the Jets and a tight three-game road trip starting Friday in Carolina. Regarding Demko’s availability, Foote said:
“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.”
Lankinen was unaware on Saturday night that he would be starting back-to-back games, after his strong 29-save effort in a 4-3 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Summary
The Canucks are managing their goaltenders strategically with Lankinen starting against the Avalanche tonight and Demko likely to face the Jets, balancing rest and performance through a challenging stretch of games.