" For the first month of the season, the Avalanche's reliance on goaltender Craig Anderson as a workhorse was understandable, given his strong play. But in recent weeks, with Anderson coming back down to earth, Colorado coach Joe Sacco's continued reluctance to use Peter Budaj at least made it appear as if he had little faith in the Slovak goalie.

So, what has Sacco learned about Budaj the past two games, when Anderson has been unavailable because of an injured neck?

"I think he's a pretty resilient guy," Sacco said after the Avalanche's 3-2 victory over Columbus on Saturday. "It's been a tough go for him over the past couple of months here. He understood his role, he worked hard, and he prepared himself so when his opportunity came he was ready. He's done a real solid job for us the last couple of games.""