T.J. Hughes scored three goals and added an assist in Colorado’s 5-2 preseason win over Winnipeg on Friday, strengthening his bid for an opening-night roster spot. Coach Jared Bednar expects to have the roster nearly finalized at Sunday’s practice.
Bednar opened the game with Hughes at center alongside Gavin Brindley and Jaden Schwartz, then shifted him to wing and returned Nazem Kadri to center. Hughes had spent most of training camp on the wing, despite playing center at Michigan; Bednar said Hughes helped spark the line.
The article says a lineup with Hughes, Kadri and Schwartz could leave Fedor Svechkov or L’Heureux out if Colorado cannot carry 13 forwards; both require waivers, while Hughes is exempt. Bednar said Hughes, Brindley and Taylor Makar will play Saturday in Utah.
