"The competition is friendly, but also fierce, for the top six defensive spots with the Avalanche right now.

The Avs went into Saturday's contest against the Los Angeles Kings with eight healthy defensemen on the roster. Usually, teams play only six D-men in a game, which means one or two players must sit.

Against the Kings, Matt Hunwick was already ruled out of playing. Seven defenders were slated to participate in the pregame warm-ups, and coach Joe Sacco was unsure whether he would use all seven or just go with six.

Veteran Jan Hejda, who missed some time with a groin injury, said he was feeling ready to go again Saturday morning."