Avalanche Goaltender Out For Game 2

On Thursday morning, the Colorado Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar announced that they will be without starting goaltender Darcy Kuemper for game two of the Western Conference Finals. Pavel Francouz is expected to get the start in Kuemper's place. While third-string netminder Justus Annunen is expected to back him up. However, the starter wasn't confirmed by Bednar.

Kuemper confirmed out by Bednar.
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) June 2, 2022

Mid-way through game 1 against the Edmonton Oilers, Kuemper had to leave with an upper-body injury. Francouz came in to relieve him as the Avalanche managed to hold on to take game 1 8-6. The Avalanche had a 6-3 lead when Kuemper left the game.

At this time, Bednar says that they aren't sure how long his starting netminder will be out but tonight is the only certainty. No other further info can be given right now.

According to Colorado Hockey Now reporter Adrian Dater, Kuemper's injury is likely related to a previous eye injury he had suffered earlier in the playoffs. It is also possible that a concussion could have occurred, he added to his claims yesterday.

Hearing there are/were Kuemper concussion symptoms from pucks to mask last night, symptoms which include vision/fogginess. Had previous eye injury too. Fluid situation. A couple good nights’ rest be all needed. Tomorrow key. @ColHockeyNow
— Adrian Dater (@adater) June 2, 2022

With that being said, the injury could be more serious than the Avalanche are willing to let on at the moment. Kuemper's situation will be a storyline to follow, especially if the Oilers start taking control of the series. Nonetheless, the Avalanche have trust that Francouz will be able to help them get to the Stanley Cup Final, in the case that Kuemper is out long-term.

Bednar on Pavel Francouz getting the start tonight:
“We’re completely confident he can get the job done” pic.twitter.com/gZ7zHwQQBt
— Romi Bean (@Romi_Bean) June 2, 2022

Game two will start tonight at 8pm EST/ 6pm MST as the Avalanche look to take a 2-0 stranglehold on the series.