Though they won the game, the Colorado Avalanche defense left a lot to be desired last night. The team gave up a lot of scoring chances and the Rangers possessed the puck for most of the third period. Luckily Semyon Varlamov was outstanding and was able to steal the game for the Avs.
It looks like Saturday afternoon, the Avs will go with a different lineup than in the opener. Nikita Zadorov confirmed that he will be in the lineup against New Jersey after being a healthy scratch last night. This seems to make it clear that the team was trying to send a distinct message by putting him in the press box for the first game of the season.
To go along with Zadorov, it looks like Anton Lindholm might find his way into the lineup as well. Lindholm was recalled from San Antonio earlier today to fill out the 23-man roster. He and Zadorov were paired up during practice, signaling that they might both draw into the lineup against the Devils.
The team is now carrying 8 defensemen - coach Bednar let it be known after practice today that the two scratches are still yet to be determined.
Jared Bednar after practice in NJ. Says Bernier in net tomorrow. Confirms Zadorov back in. Scratched D TBD #Avs pic.twitter.com/8f5F6nP143
— Mike Chambers (@MikeChambers) October 6, 2017