GLENDALE, Ariz. — What does John-Michael Liles hear most from his coaches?
“Basically, to always keep my feet moving,” the Avalanche defenseman said.
Liles has been moving up the points list for the Avs, entering Wednesday’s game against Phoenix with three consecutive multiple-point efforts — something only two other defensemen have done in franchise history.
The added offense from Liles is something the Avs have needed and likely will continue to need with the extended absences of Joe Sakic and Paul Stastny. After a 3-1 loss to the Coyotes, Colorado defensemen had 13 points (five goals) in the last four games.
“All our D-men have the ability to contribute at the offensive end,” Avs coach Tony Granato said. “(Liles) has given us a boost. The good part is he’s not sacrificing things at the defensive end.”
Ledin skating.
Per Ledin, the winger from Sweden the Avs signed to a contract in the offseason, has resumed skating after missing close to two months with a broken foot.
Ledin, one of the last cuts at training camp by Colorado, is with the Lake Erie Monsters of the American Hockey League. He probably would have been a callup by the Avs in the wake of recent injuries if not for his ailment.
Durno sits.
Chris Durno was recalled from Lake Erie but was a healthy scratch against Phoenix.
Avs winger Chris Stewart was listed as a game-time decision with an unidentified ailment. He felt good enough to play, at left wing on a line with T.J. Hensick and David Jones.
Footnote.
Hensick’s first-period goal for the Avs was his first since Dec. 1, against Minnesota.
Adrian Dater, The Denver Post
