In a surprising move, the Avalanche this morning demoted forward Brad Richardson to Lake Erie of the American Hockey League, and recalled rookie and former Hobey Baker Trophy finalist T.J. Hensick.
Richardson had recently been recalled from Lake Erie following a wrist injury, but the Avs coaching staff apparently felt his play didn’t warrant his staying with the big club, opening the opportunity for Hensick.
Hensick, 21, led Lake Erie in scoring with 13 points (five goals) in 18 games. Avalanche executive Steve Konowalchuk Wednesday night spoke highly of Hensick, saying he was doing well in Lake Erie and had improved his defensive play, which was a reason why he didn’t survive the final cuts in training camp.
Hensick had a strong camp with the Avs, and had a seven-game point streak recently with the Monsters. He is expected to be in the lineup when the Avs play at San Jose Friday night.
