Avalanche activate Varlamov off IR, demote Pickard

Colorado Avalanche goalie Semyon Varlamov (groin) was activated from injured reserve Sunday. In a corresponding move, goalie Calvin Pickard was reassigned to the AHL's San Antonio Rampage.

Analysis:

Varlamov has been practicing since Tuesday and was expected by Patrick Roy to be available for Monday's game against the Jets, but this at least makes it official. Assuming he's able to start next game, he'll push Reto Berra into a backup role.