AVS LIVE: First period analysis vs. San Jose

I asked Avs head coach Jared Bednar after morning skate on Tuesday if he’s had any conversations with his veteran second-liners Brandon Saad and Nazem Kadri concerning their lackluster performances through the first six games of the year.

He told me he actually spoke with them as a line this morning regarding that very subject. During the team’s recent road swing through California, Bednar said he sat down with them individually as well.

“They haven’t been great,” he said. “They’re a line that that I see is as what should be a real good puck-possession line. They’re not in the offensive zone enough; they’re a little bit disconnected; they’re a little too cute with the puck; they’re not playing near the goal line in the offensive zone and then winning battles.”

So, naturally, the Avs head coach started Tuesday night’s game with that very line. As he’s been known to do in the past.