Connor Timmins was among three bright young defensemen in the Avalanche’s preseason opener Tuesday night against the visiting Vegas Golden Knights. Timmins, who turns 21 on Wednesday, and Ryan Graves, 24, and Bo Byram, 18, could each see action with the Avs in 2019-20.
For Timmins, just being in Tuesday’s lineup at the Pepsi Center was a monumental triumph. Colorado’s 2017 second-round draft pick (32nd overall) was a top 2017-18 prospect who missed all of last season with concussion-like symptoms.
Timmins was cleared for contact at the Avs’ midsummer development camp, competed in the recent rookie camp and was again impressive during training camp.