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Varlamov’s return pushed back, McGinn’s season might be done

Colorado Avalanche v New Jersey Devils

Semyon Varlamov

NHLI via Getty Images

Avalanche coach Patrick Roy will get to see goaltender Calvin Pickard at least one more time before netminder Semyon Varlamov’s (groin) return pushes the team to make a change.

Although Roy initially expected Varlamov to be available on Monday, per the Denver Post’s Adrian Dater, the bench boss has decided to err on the side of caution by delaying their starting goaltender’s return until Thursday. Pickard will start again on Monday, according to Mike Chambers.

Roy has previously stated that he intends to keep Pickard on the roster once Varlamov is healthy enough to play and he doesn’t want to carry three goaltenders. Unless something changes soon, the stage seems to be set for Reto Berra to be put on waivers.

Although the Avalanche are likely to get Varlamov back soon, the news is far grimmer for Jamie McGinn. The 26-year-old forward hasn’t played in roughly two weeks and might undergo season-ending back surgery. Patrick Bordeleau had back surgery over the offseason and won’t be able to make his season debut for weeks.

In light of Colorado’s injury problems, they’ve summoned 21-year-old forward Colin Smith and 22-year-old forward Mike Sgarbossa. Smith is looking to make his NHL debut while Sgarbossa has six NHL contests under his belt.

Colorado will face Montreal next.

Follow @RyanDadoun