There was a time when T.J. Hensick’s future was a subject of optimistic, happy talk around Avalanche headquarters. It’s possible there is no future with the team for the young center now.
Hensick was placed on waivers Wednesday, and will be sent to Lake Erie of the American Hockey League if no NHL team claims him by noon today. If an NHL team claims him, it will be responsible for the remainder of his $875,000 salary. Otherwise, Hensick will be paid a lesser amount at Lake Erie as part of a two-way contract.
Hensick, 23, has played only seven games this season, with a goal and two assists. The 2005 third-round draft pick showed some of the promise in his rookie season that made him a celebrated player at Michigan, but his playing time has dwindled steadily since.
Hensick’s size (listed at 5-feet-10, 185 pounds) has never been a plus at the NHL level, and coaches have occasionally mentioned a lack of attention to the defensive side of the game.
Cumiskey hurt.
Avs defenseman Kyle Cumiskey missed Wednesday’s game with an injured foot and is expected to miss a few days. It was his first missed game of the season.
Captain Adam Foote missed his fourth straight game with a jaw injury. He thought he would be able to play, but apparently wasn’t fully recovered from the injury. Veteran Tom Preissing was inserted into the lineup for Foote.
