Game 6 preview: Jared Bednar has Covid test “irregularities” (UPDATED)

We know Jared Bednar will be there in spirit for Game 6 tonight against Vegas. Whether he’s there in body will be determined by an afternoon Covid-19 test.

The Avalanche coach had to miss the morning skate at T-Mobile Arena because of what the team said were “irregularities” with a Covid test. I’m hearing that there is cautious optimism Bednar will be on the bench tonight, though, pending the second test in the afternoon.

If Bednar can’t be on the bench, he likely won’t be allowed in the arena, either. It would then be up to assistant coaches Nolan Pratt and Ray Bennett to work the bench. Some have speculated that GM Joe Sakic should go on the bench, too, but that won’t happen I’m told.

UPDATE: Bednar has been cleared to coach on the bench, the team just said.

The Avs will have the same lineup in this game as in Game 5.

All the bookmakers are writing off the Avs. Vegas is a -135 favorite to win in Game 6 at SuperBook Colorado. Other sportsbooks have similar odds.

It’s going to be a tough chore winning this one, folks. As someone who has been in that building, it is CRAZY in there. You can barely hear yourself think. But it’s the same game as on the ice there as it is anywhere else. Take care of the puck, limit their chances and convert on a couple of your own and this thing CAN come back to Denver.

“We’re excited for an opportunity to win a game in this building,” defenseman Devon Toews said.