Canucks: Kevin Lankinen to Start Against Avalanche, Thatcher Demko Likely for Jets
Kevin Lankinen will make back-to-back starts tonight for the Vancouver Canucks against the Colorado Avalanche. Meanwhile, Thatcher Demko is expected to face the Winnipeg Jets on Tuesday.
Starting Goaltender Plans
Thatcher Demko skated Sunday morning, but the Canucks have decided to start Kevin Lankinen again at Rogers Arena. Recalled goaltender Jiri Patera will serve as the backup for tonight's game against the high-powered Avalanche.
Lankinen’s Recent Performance
Last season, Lankinen made consecutive starts with notable performances. He recorded 23 saves in a 4-2 loss to the Montreal Canadiens on March 11 and followed that with 20 saves in a 4-3 victory over Calgary the next night. Tonight, he faces the dynamic duo Nathan MacKinnon and Martin Necas.
MacKinnon and Necas Impact
MacKinnon and Necas have combined for 21 goals and 42 points this season. The Avalanche are currently 9-1-5 and come off a 9-1 win against the Edmonton Oilers.
Demko’s Status and Upcoming Schedule
To keep Demko rested for the demanding schedule ahead—which includes facing Winnipeg Tuesday and a compressed three-game road trip starting Friday in Carolina—head coach Adam Foote indicated Demko is likely to start on Tuesday.
“Thatcher felt good, he had a good day,” Foote said of Sunday’s 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’s Awareness
After his 29-save performance in a 4-3 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets on Saturday night, Lankinen was unaware he would be starting consecutive games.
Summary
The Canucks will rely on Lankinen to counter the Avalanche’s offense tonight, while Demko prepares for a tough upcoming stretch starting with the Jets.
Author’s summary: Kevin Lankinen starts against the Avalanche in back-to-back games, while Thatcher Demko is poised to face the Jets, balancing rest amid a packed schedule for the Canucks.