Reinforcements have finally arrived. After over three weeks recovering from a knee injury he suffered in pre-game warmups, Colorado goalie Craig Anderson will make the start between the pipes tonight against the New York Rangers.
This news comes a week earlier than most had expected, as Anderson was expected to merely back up Peter Budaj (who has played spectacularly for Colorado). Instead, last year's team MVP will get the start and hopefully improve on what has been a rocky start to his season.
New York comes into this game also getting healthy, as top forward Marian Gaborik is back in the lineup. His return has been a major impetus in the Rangers winning three of their last four -- two of those games in overtime. New York has been one of the best road teams in the league this season, going 6-2, while Colorado has been merely average on their home ice.
Adrian Dater also reports that Jonas Holos and David Koci will be healthy scratches for the second straight game. With the play of defensemen Adam Foote and Ryan Wilson since their return from injury, this comes as a shock. This defensive pairing has allowed every single even strength goal in the past two games, including allowing a goal on their very first shift against both St. Louis and San Jose.
Colorado handily won their first meeting this season, dominating the Rangers 3-1 at Madison Square Garden. Chris Stewart scored two goals and Craig Anderson made 31 saves. Colorado looks for the series sweep tonight.
The puck drops at 7pm MDT.