Steve Konowalchuk News

That's a great question right now, and you have to believe the brass at Team USA are starting to think about Andy.

Avalanche coach Joe Sacco confirmed Tuesday that backup goalie Peter Budaj, who missed his scheduled first start of the season Friday because of illness, has been diagnosed with swine flu, the H1N1 virus.

After the Avalanche morning skate today at Rexall Place, Colorado coach Joe Sacco confirmed that backup goalie Peter Budaj, who missed his scheduled first start of the season last Friday because of illness, has been diagnosed with swine flu, or the H1N1 virus.

Former Avalanche goalie Jocelyn Thibault, who was part of the 1995 trade with Montreal that brought Patrick Roy to Denver, has been hired as Colorado's goalie consultant.

Although playoffs are certainly a long-shot for the '09-'10 Avalanche, there is no shortage of intrigue surrounding this team.

The dark, steely eyes have softened somewhat. His resolve has not. Pierre La- croix refuses to blink.

Pierre Lacroix was using a cane at Joe Sakic's retirement news conference today, but the Avalanche president considered that a major step forward.

In the Mile High City, most of the media's attention, and that of the fans, has been directed towards the Denver Broncos.

Two important Avalanche jobs were filled by familiar faces Friday when the team hired former players Steve Konowalchuk and Adam Deadmarsh as coaches.

Movements in the world of hockey Friday: National Hockey League COLORADO AVALANCHE-Named Steve Konowalchuk assistant coach and Adam Deadmarsh video and development coach.

Former Colorado Avalanche player Steve Konowalchuk was named the team's assistant coach on Friday.

Joe Sacco, 40, has worked in the Avs' organization since 2005, after a 13-year career in the NHL with five teams.

Aaron MacKenzie had some good coaching when he played at the University of Denver from 1999-2003, and the former Pioneers defenseman said he's had the same under new Avalanche coach Joe Sacco during his time with the Lake Erie Monsters.