Near his 21st birthday last month, and about a month after making his NHL debut, Chris Bigras' body language turned from precarious to poised. The rookie Avalanche defenseman from small-town Canadian roots learned he could do this.
"It's a comfort thing, getting experience up here and a feel for the game," said Bigras, who has played in 23 consecutive games since being called up from the minors Jan. 13. "It's definitely a huge jump from where I was last year in junior, and a jump from the AHL as well. I'm getting more and more comfortable and confident with myself and my abilities.