Latvia's Skrastins matches NHL defender game streak

0 Comments | AFP, February, 2007

DENVER, United States (AFP) — Colorado Avalanche defenseman Karlis Skrastins matched the National Hockey League record for consecutive games played by a defender here Tuesday in his team's 5-4 victory over Florida.

The 32-year-old Latvian played in his 486th consecutive game to equal Tim Horton of the 1960s Toronto Maple Leafs for the all-time NHL record streak by a defenseman.

Skrastins is set to break the mark here Thursday when the Avalanche play host to Atlanta.

Skrastins began his streak on February 21, 2000, as a rookie with the Nashville Predators and has not missed a game his team has played, averaging 20 minutes and 48 seconds of playing time in every game.

Colorado's Paul Stastny scored with 37 seconds remaining in regulation time and Joe...