With Colorado Avalanche backup netminder J.S. Giguere injured, the Avalanche gave rookie goaltender Sami Aittokallio his first career start on Saturday evening against the Tampa Bay Lightning. While Aittokallio was entrusted with the start, he wasn't trusted to finish the game as he was pulled after just two periods of work and replaced by usual Avalanche starter Semyon Varlamov.
In total Aittokallio stopped 15 of the 18 shots he faced, got a bit unlucky on Mark Barbiero's second period tally, and got a taste of NHL action. He's due to be saddled with the loss should the Avalanche fall short against the Lightning.
