Kinkaid demoted after NHL debut

by Ryan Fay

Despite a strong NHL debut last night, former Union hockey goaltender Keith Kinkaid is back in the minors.

The Farmingville, New York native was re-assigned to Albany (AHL) after stopping 12 of 13 shots in relief of Johan Hedberg during New Jersey's 5-2 loss to Tampa Bay on Tuesday. In a corresponding move, New Jersey promoted goalie Jeff Frazee from Albany.

According to a tweet from New Jersey beat writer Rich Chere, "[New Jersey head coach] Pete DeBoer said he told general manager Lou Lamoriello [that] Hedberg will start tomorrow, so that is probably why Kinkaid was sent back to minors."

"Probably to get Kinkaid some starts," Chere relayed in a subsequent tweet.

In 33 games for Albany this season, Kinkaid has a 2.69 goals against average and a .905 save percentage.

Albany hosts Bridgeport on Friday. Gametime is 7 pm.