Deen’s Daily: Avs Lineup Changes; Tkachuk Nears Return; Flyers Speculation

The Avalanche are making changes ahead of tonight’s game. Pittsburgh and Detroit got back in the winning column and Florida has a big piece nearing a return. Also, speculation is ramping up in Philly.

All that and more on this edition of Deen’s Daily — December 29.

Colorado Hockey Now

The Avs had a full-team practice on Sunday, following a huge shootout win in Vegas the prior night. Everyone skated except for Cale Makar, who had a day off from on-ice activities.

Here’s what went down, and what the Avs are changing up ahead of this evening’s game against the L.A. Kings.

READ MORE: Avalanche Practice: Why Bednar Started Wedgewood; Third Line Shakeup

The Avalanche didn’t play a perfect game against the Knights. But it was going to be a challenge regardless. Here’s what they did to overcome their mistakes and still come away with two points.

READ MORE: 10 Takeaways: The Avalanche Survived Their Mistakes

Around The NHL

Pittsburgh Hockey Now: The Pens got a hat trick from an unlikely source and walked the Blackhawks a day after Chicago pulled off an upset in Dallas.

Montreal Hockey Now: The Habs scraped for a point against the Lightning. But they couldn’t secure a second in a shootout.

Detroit Hockey Now: Fun in Motor City on Sunday. The Wings pulled off a comeback against division rival Toronto.

Florida Hockey Now: Look who’s back at Panthers skate. Matthew Tkachuk is nearing a return.

Philly Hockey Now: The latest report surrounding the Flyers has them negotiating a contract with a centerman and working to offload a defenseman.

Vegas Hockey Now: The Golden Knights pulled off a big trade with the Predators involving Nic Hague. But they almost used that asset to land a bigger piece from the Calgary Flames.