Canucks: Kevin Lankinen Starts Against Avalanche, Thatcher Demko Possible for Jets
Kevin Lankinen will make back-to-back starts tonight against the Colorado Avalanche at Rogers Arena. Although Thatcher Demko skated Sunday morning, Lankinen will be the starter, with recalled backup Jiri Patera on the bench.
Lankinen previously made consecutive starts last season, recording 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 win in Calgary the next night. Tonight, he faces the Avalanche’s red-hot duo, Nathan MacKinnon and Martin Necas, who have combined for 21 goals and 42 points. Colorado currently holds a 9-1-5 record and just dominated the Oilers 9-1 in Edmonton on Saturday.
To manage Demko’s workload amid a demanding schedule, Canucks head coach Adam Foote indicated Demko is likely to start Tuesday against the Winnipeg Jets. Foote commented on Demko’s Sunday skate:
“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.”
After Lankinen’s strong 29-save performance in the 4-3 win over Columbus on Saturday, he was not initially aware he would be starting again tonight.
Upcoming Schedule
- Tuesday: Canucks face Winnipeg Jets, likely with Thatcher Demko in goal
- Friday onward: Three-game southeastern road trip compressed into four days, beginning in Carolina
This approach ensures Demko remains rested and ready for the demanding stretch ahead.
Author’s summary: Kevin Lankinen starts again against the Avalanche while Thatcher Demko is expected to be rested and likely start Tuesday versus the Jets, as the Canucks navigate a tight game schedule.