When Joe Sakic left after the first period in Saturday’s preseason game against the Los Angeles Kings in Las Vegas, Avalanche management quickly made their way to the dressing room to learn more.
Sakic suffered an injury, but Sunday the Avalanche listed it as nothing more than a minor hip flexor. The Colorado captain isn’t expected to miss much time.
Sakic may have been shaken up on a check along the boards by Kings forward Sean Avery in the first period, or the slushy ice of the MGM Grand Garden Arena could have played a part. The Avs did not disclose specifics of how the injury occurred.
Colorado lost 3-2. Los Angeles scored three goals in the third period, including the game-winner in the final minute. Peter Budaj had a shutout going until the Kings’ late rally.
Avs make cuts
The Avalanche trimmed its preseason roster to 31 Sunday, sending four players to the Albany (N.Y.) River Rats of the American Hockey League: defenseman Kyle Cumiskey, goalie Tyler Weiman, right wing John Laliberte and center Ben Guite.
Adrian Dater can be reached at 303-954-1360 or adater@denverpost.com.
