Canucks Offseason Update, 2016 NHL Draft, The Next Chapter

Posted on May 28, 2016 by CanucksBanter

Just-saying By Andrew Chernoff May 28, 2016

The Vancouver Canucks have been busy trying to “rebuild”, or “retool” the team as they prepare for the upcoming 2016 NHL Draft and later the 2016-17 season.

CANUCKS OFFSEASON WHEELING AND DEALING

Canucks General Manager Jim Benning has been adding youth to the already formidable youth movement established by the Canucks since he has been the Canucks general manager.

The Canucks in April signed free agents Troy Stecher and Michael Garteig; and 2014 draft pick Thatcher Demko.
On April 26, Vancouver signed 23 year old centre Markus Granlund to a two-year contract extension.
On May 16, Vancouver signed free agent Yan-Pavel Laplante, and on May 26, the Canucks signed free agent Tom Nilsson.

On May 25, Benning demonstrated he was not shy about pulling a trade, if he felt it could help the club, when Vancouver acquired 24 year old defenceman Erik Gudbranson and Florida’s 2016 fifth round pick (NYI) in exchange for Jared McCann and the Canucks 2016 second and fourth round picks.

Benning has received criticism about the trade and questions about an apparent philosophical change to acquire Gudbranson, in trading away McCann and the Canucks 2016 second and fourth round picks.

Gudbranson is a 6-foot-5, 220-pound defenceman who will play in the team’s top four next season, according to Benning, and felt the deal was too good to pass up at this stage of the offseason.

It was a steep price to pay, but this past season Gudbranson came into his own for Florida, as he ranked third on the Panthers in hits (150), fourth in blocked shots (73) and fourth in average ice time per game (20:06). The 2010 3rd overall NHL draft pick ranked second on the Panthers and led Florida defencemen in average ice time in the 2016 playoffs (26:54) in addition to ranking second on the team in blocked shots (8).

Earlier in March, the Canucks signed 2009 draft pick, 25 year old right wing Anton Rodin to a one-year, one-way contract on March 22; and on March 9, signed their fourth pick (third round, 66th overall) in the 2014 NHL Draft, defenceman Nikita Tryamkin, to a 2-year entry-level contract.

Tryamkin was able to play in 13 games for the Canucks this past season after signing, registering a goal and an assist (1-1-2). He registered a career-high five hits, Apr. 1 at ANA…Notched a career-high three shots and 21:01 TOI, Mar. 27 vs CHI…Recorded four hits and a career-high four blocked shots, Mar. 19 vs STL…Appeared in his first NHL game and recorded his first NHL point, Mar. 16 vs COL. He collected his first career NHL goal, Apr. 7 at CGY.

2016 NHL DRAFT

Vancouver will enter the 2016 NHL Entry Draft, currently owning the 5th, 33rd, 63rd, 93rd, 153rd, 183rd and 193rd overall picks, potentially giving the Canucks a great opportunity to add to an already impressive collection of young talent, that Vancouver is hoping will payoff in an optimistic future for the team.

Since the Canucks reorganization in 2014, the Canucks drafts have yielded the following:

2014

Round 1, 6th overall pick: Jake Virtanen

Round 1, 24th overall (from Anaheim): Jared McCann

Round 2: Thatcher Demko

Round 3: Nikita Tryamkin

Round 5: Gustav Forsling

Round 6: Kyle Pettit

Round 7: Mackenze Stewart

2015

Round 1 (23rd overall): Brock Boeser

Round 3: Guillaume Brisebois

Round 4: Dimitry Zhukenov

Round 5: Carl Neill

Round 5 (from Rangers): Adam Gaudette

Round 6: Lukas Jasek

Round 7: Tate Olson

THE NEXT CHAPTER

According to Trevor Linden, President, Hockey Operations, the Canucks are developing their next core—the next generation of the team.

“We’re getting younger and faster. There’s nothing like seeing a young core group come together, right from the start. It’s an exciting time to be a Canucks fan.”

General Manager Jim Benning, echos the same thoughts, as the Canucks strive to build a winning team, assuring Canuck fans alike, it’s happening.

“We are accelerating the development of our young players by surrounding them with the best NHL leadership, character and talent. There are no shortcuts. No one says this will be easy. What it will be, is what you’ve come to expect from Canucks hockey at its best: Exciting. Energetic. Emotional. You’ll see the future of the team emerging in front of you, every night.”

And Coach Willie Desjardins is just as psyched about the Canucks future, and his expectations are crystal clear and unambiguous.

“Every time we hit the ice I want our guys to play hard, with energy and speed. It’s about competing every shift with passion, whether you’re a veteran or a rookie. That’s what we’re trying to teach here: a relentless belief that a Vancouver Canuck is going to do things the right way, for his teammates, every single day. That’s what makes great teammates, and that’s what makes great teams.”

Marketing is one thing, and well and good. The Canucks need to make it happen.

Make it happen, and the sell outs will return for all home games.

Make it happen. Winning makes believers, is infectious, builds, is good for the bottom line, provides stability.

Just saying.

Canucks 2016 NHL Draft Thoughts As Promised Change Continues

Posted on April 28, 2016 by CanucksBanter

Just-saying By Andrew Phillip Chernoff April 28, 2016

Canucks ownership promised “Change Is Coming” at the end of the 2014 season.

And it did:

the addition of Trevor Linden, who played 16 seasons as a Canuck and earned the nickname “Captain Canuck”, as President of Hockey Operations for the Vancouver Canucks by team owner Francesco Aquilini on Wednesday, April 9, 2014;
the hiring of Jim Benning on Wednesday, May 21, 2014, a former teammate of Linden, to be the Canucks 11th general manager;
the announcement of Willie Desjardins as the 18th coach of the franchise on Monday, June 23, 2014, who led the AHL’s Texas Stars to a Calder Cup championship on Tuesday, June 17, 2014;
the signing of goalie Ryan Miller on July 1, 2014 to a 3-year contract.

demonstrated aggressive leadership by Canucks ownership and new management to put the club right and demonstrate to the media, fans and the league, that the Canucks were prepared to be competitive, relevant and put the pieces in place to once again be one of the elite teams in the NHL.

The trading of Ryan Kesler, before the start of the 2014 NHL Draft, ensured that Kesler would not be an issue with the Canucks moving forward and the moving of Jason Garrison which freed up cap space, continued the theme of “Change Is Coming”.

This past season was a struggle, disappointing, frustrating, and it is in the past now.

The 2016 NHL Draft continues the theme of “Change Is Coming”, as the Vancouver Canucks continue to add pieces on their climb back to become one of the top teams in the NHL.

The Draft Lottery is on April 30th and Vancouver will find out where they will be slotted for their first pick of the draft.

The Vancouver Canucks can select as high as first and as low as sixth in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft June 24-25 in Buffalo.

My choices for the Canucks first pick of the 2016 NHL draft, in order of preference, are:

1)-Auston Matthews – Center

Auston Matthews is an American professional ice hockey player. Matthews is currently playing for the ZSC Lions of the Swiss National League A. Previously, Matthews played for the U.S. National U18 Team in the USHL. Wikipedia

A high octane dynamo that thrives under the microscope, Auston Matthews is a complete offensive forward who consistently boasts quick hands, feet, and thinking at both ends of the ice. Naturally nimble skater that accelerates to top speed very quickly. An unwavering focus on fine tuning elements of his own game facilitates confidence and competence in his young, but mature, mind. Prolific goal scoring ability and doesn’t wait for opportunities to show themselves. He makes his own luck, so to speak, maximizing the use of his body and stick to gain leverage against the toughest of opponents. All-in-all, a generational talent that has the potential to develop into a top flight franchise center.

Uncle: Wes Matthews(NFL Player – external link)

Source: http://www.eliteprospects.com/

2)-Matthew Tkachuk – Left Wing

Matthew Tkachuk of the London Knights. Photo by Aaron Bell/OHL Images

Matthew Tkachuk is an American ice hockey player. He is currently playing with the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League. Tkachuk is a top rated prospect who is projected to be a possible Top 5 pick at the 2016 NHL Entry Draft. Wikipedia

A multi-dimensional energy winger that plays a pro-style, adaptive game. Well-versed as a guy who can consistently put up points, but also as an agitator who plays with a little bit of bite and nastiness. Skates with excellent balance and speed, outclassing many in his age range. No lack of offensive instincts and knows how to score in many different ways. Confidence in his abilities and playing to the extent of his capabilities strengthens his work ethic and creativity. All-in-all, a unique and effective forward who defines his own limits and seeks to exceed them, along with all on-ice expectations.

Brother: Brady Tkachuk
Father: Keith Tkachuk
Cousins: Casey Fitzgerald, Ryan Fitzgerald, Scott Fitzgerald, Tom Fitzgerald, Jimmy Hayes, Kevin Hayes

Source: http://www.eliteprospects.com/

3)-Jesse Puljujärvi – Right Wing

MONTREAL, QC – DECEMBER 27: Jesse Puljujarvi #13 of Team Finland skates during the 2015 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship game against Team Slovakia at the Bell Centre on December 27, 2014 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Team Slovakia defeated Team Finland 2-1. (Photo by Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images)

Jesse Puljujärvi is a Finnish ice hockey player, currently playing with Kärpät in the Finnish Liiga. Puljujärvi is rated as a top prospect who is expected to be a top 5 pick in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft. Wikipedia

Puljujärvi is a big winger who combines size, skating and skill. A strong skater who can blast past the opposition in full speed. Able to use his size, reach and stickhandling skills to retain the puck in speed. A smart player at both ends of the ice, both on and off the puck. Great work ethic and positive attitude. More of a playmaker than a scorer and could improve his shooting skills. Doesn’t shy away from physical play, but could use his size more to his benefit.

A truly dominant two-way force that consistently demonstrates elite hockey sense, proactive defensive awareness, and a full array of offensive tools. Comparable to Jamie Benn of the Dallas Stars, Puljujärvi owns a dangerously accurate shot, as well as exceptional playmaking ability that pairs up quite nicely with his superb vision and enthusiasm. Has the ability to absolutely dominate by using his size and speed to keep possession of the puck until he determines it to be the right time for the rubber to hit the back of the net. Everything that he does, he does well, to the fullest of his ability; there are no empty holes in this electrifying and hard-nosed forward’s game.

Source: http://www.eliteprospects.com/

4)- Jakob Chychrun – Defenseman

Jakob Chychrun is an American-born Canadian ice hockey defenceman. He is currently an alternate captain for the Sarnia Sting of the Ontario Hockey League. Wikipedia

An unyielding two-way defenceman, Jakob Chychrun is a rising star with a toolbox bursting at the seams. Consistently displays elite four-way skating ability and is not afraid to throw his weight around physically. Plays with poise and composure through high pressure situations and, with the puck on his stick, can direct the play up-ice. Exhibits a particularly potent shot that works its magic on the power play and on the forecheck. Excellent first pass and uses his vision and awareness to keep the puck moving in the direction of the opposition’s tail or to a teammate with more time and space. Defensively adept at tracking the puck and staying a step ahead of the opposition. Proactive with his stick and body, exerting pressure on the opposition and forcing them to make hurried decisions.

All-in-all, a well-rounded two-way defender that competes with pro-level drive and makes his authoritative presence felt at both ends of the ice.

Father: Jeff Chychrun
Uncle: Luke Richardson
Cousin: Morgan Richardson

Source: http://www.eliteprospects.com/

5)-Pierre-Luc Dubois – Left Wing

Pierre-Luc Dubois is a Canadian ice hockey player. He is currently playing with the Cape Breton Screaming Eagles of the QMJHL. Wikipedia

A dexterous and driven competitor that has all the makings of a dynamic two-way winger. Not the most electric skater, but is shifty and plays to the extent of his physical capabilities; he knows his limits and plays within them, which facilitates a student-like approach to the growth of his game. Possesses high hockey-IQ and is consistent in his efforts. Not the most physical player, but is when he needs to be. All-in-all, Dubois is an invaluable all-around player who plays in all situations and exceeds expectations when the opportunity arises. (Curtis Joe, EP 2016)

A top-end talent that impacts all aspects of the game from different angles. May well be the most complete player in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft. His multidimensional play and elite offensive prowess reminds scouts a little bit of James Neal. Competitiveness marks his game and he consistently proves to be a high impact player when he is on the ice. [EP]

Father: Éric Dubois

Source: http://www.eliteprospects.com/

6)-Patrik Laine – Right Wing

Patrik Laine is a Finnish ice hockey player. He currently plays with Tappara in the Finnish Liiga. Laine is rated as a top prospect in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft, and is expected by hockey analysts to be a top-two overall selection. Wikipedia

A natural scorer, Laine’s greatest asset is his intimidating shot. He’s not a speedy skater, but possesses power and a long stride, and protects the puck well with his large frame and longer stick. Overall, skating has been a minor issue through Laine’s development but has improved with some help from his ability to read the game. Laine has the hunger to create chances on his own from the wing and actively looks for and creates opportunities to use his shot. His elite wrist shot is notable for its quick release and his powerful one-timer from the top of the circle is a constant threat on the man-advantage.

Source: http://www.eliteprospects.com/

As for their other picks, the Canucks should take a good look at these available players, in no particular order:

Defensemen:

MIKHAIL SERGACHYOV Shoots Left
JAKE BEAN Shoot Left
DANTE FABBRO Shoots Right
KALE CLAGUE Shoots Left
SEAN DAY Shoots Left
STEPAN FALKOVSKY Shoots Left
OLEG SOSUNOV Shoots Left
KEATON MIDDLETON Shoots Left

Forwards:

ALEXANDER NYLANDER Right Wing/Left Wing
CLAYTON KELLER Center
RODRIGO ABOLS Center
CAMERON ASKEW Center
REID GARDINER Right Wing/Center
CARSEN TWARYNSKI Left Wing/Defenceman

As of now, the Canucks have seven draft picks, and could have eight:

The Canucks need size, great skaters and skillful players, both up front and on the back end.

The 2014 draft choices the Canucks made were: left wing Jake Virtanen sixth overall, centre Jared McCann 24th overall, goaltender Thatcher Demko 36th overall, defenceman Nikita Tryamkin 66th overall, defenceman Gustav Forsling 126th overall, centre Kyle Pettit 156th overall and defenceman MacKenzie Stewart 186th overall.

Right wing Linden Vey from the Los Angeles Kings was also acquired in exchange for Vancouver’s 50th selection in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft.

Virtanen, McCann and Tryamkin were on the Canucks roster this past season; Linden Vey has been in and out of the Canucks line-up since he was acquired. Thatcher Demko signed with Vancouver a couple of weeks ago after an incredible 2015-16 college season.

The Vancouver Canucks selected a total of seven players in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft: right wing Brock Boeser 23rd overall, defenceman Guillaume Brisebois 66th, centre Dmitry Zhukenov 114th, defenceman Carl Neill 144th, centre Adam Gaudette 149th, right wing Lukas Jasek 174th, and defenceman Tate Olson 210th. The 66th overall selection was acquired by trade from Carolina, plus a 7th round pick in 2016 for Eddie Lack and the 210th pick was acquired from San Jose in exchange for Patrick McNally.

It is possible that one or more of the 2015 Canuck draft picks could see time on the Canucks playing roster next season depending on training camp and injuries.

With the current Canucks roster in a state of flux regarding cap space, free agency and change of direction regarding personnel, the 2016 NHL Draft Lottery on Saturday will be the start of an interesting summer for the Vancouver organization.

The Canucks said change was coming, it definitely has, and continues. It remains to be seen how that change will continue to shape the team and its fortunes for the coming season and beyond.

Vancouver Makes It Three In A Row With 3-2 Win Over Kings

Posted on April 5, 2016 by CanucksBanter

CANUCKS BANTER By Andrew Chernoff April 4, 2016

The Vancouver Canucks (30-36-13) ended their 5-game season series last night against the Los Angeles Kings (46-28-5) at Rogers Place.

Los Angeles came into the game, 2-5-0 in their past seven games, and one point behind the first-place Anaheim Ducks with four games remaining.

Vancouver entered the game fresh off a successful sweep of a set of California games, against San Jose and Anaheim on March 31 and April 1, snapping a 9 game “winless” streak (0-8-1); and sporting a record of 5-9-1 since March 4.

The Canucks made it three consecutive wins for the first time this season, as they made it a sweep of the California teams and notched their 30th win of the season, in a 3-2 victory on home ice.

Jared McCann scored the winner in the last minute of the second period. Emerson Etem and Jannick Hansen had goals. The Sedin brothers chipped in with assists, along with Derek Dorsett and Bo Horvat. Ryan Miller stopped 35 of 37 shots for a .946 Sv%.

Ryan Miller started the win streak last Thursday against the Sharks, continuing it last night, and now is undefeated in his last two starts.

Los Angeles Kings vs. Vancouver Canucks VANCOUVER, BC - APRIL 4: Milan Lucic #17 of the Los Angeles Kings, Christopher Tanev #8 and Dan Hamhuis #2 watch Ryan Miller #30 of the Vancouver Canucks make a save during their NHL game at Rogers Arena April 4, 2016 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. (Photo by Jeff Vinnick/NHLI via Getty Images)

VANCOUVER, BC – APRIL 4: Milan Lucic #17 of the Los Angeles Kings, Christopher Tanev #8 and Dan Hamhuis #2 watch Ryan Miller #30 of the Vancouver Canucks make a save during their NHL game at Rogers Arena April 4, 2016 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. (Photo by Jeff Vinnick/NHLI via Getty Images)

GAME REVIEW

Both teams started the game with something to prove: the Canucks, that they could play better at home then their 13 wins at home indicate; and the Kings, prove that their rise to the best team in the division is no fluke and that they can play playoff hockey and dominate, opposite from what their previous game indicate.

Jannik Hansen would get the first penalty of the game at 3:27 for tripping Brayden McNabb and the Canucks would kill the disadvantage with little trouble.

The Canucks inability at winning face-offs in the game, losing 6 of the first 7, and being out shot 7 to 1, would lead to the first goal of the game and put the Kings up 1-0 at six minutes.

Tyler Toffoli, his 30th of the season, assisted by Jeff Carter (37) and Drew Doughty (36).

Vancouver would get a chance at 7:51 to respond to the King’s opening goal, with the man advantage, with their second power play of the game, when Andy Andreoff would serve a tripping minor against against Andrey Pedan.

The Canucks would fail to capitalize, adding to their futility on the power play, making it 1 for 39 in 15 games.

With 8:28 left, Canucks were being out shot 8 to 2; were 1 for 11 on face-offs; and being out hit 5 to 2. Kings with the momentum.

Vancouver would get another chance to improve their power play efficiency when at 14:54 Drew Doughty would visit the sin bin for tripping Jannick Hansen. Need I say more? That’s right, they are now 1 for 40.

Canucks would even up the score though, with 13 seconds left in the period, when Emerson Etem would score his 5th goal of the season, and 2nd goal in three games, assisted by Derek Dorsett (9) and Bo Horvat (23).

Tied at 1-1 after one period.

In the first period:

Vancouver out shot by Los Angeles 13-6 and won 6 of 19 face-offs.
Canucks out hit by Kings 10 to 8.
Vancouver face-off leaders: Markus Granlund-1 for 4; Bo Horvat-3 for 4; Brendan Gaunce-0 for 4; Henrik Sedin-2 for 6; Emerson Etem-0 for 1
Emerson Etem- 2 shots
Matt Bartkowski, Jake Virtanen and Emerson Etem: 2 hits
Vancouver power play 0 for 2; penalty kill, 1-1
Canucks TOI: Dan Hamhuis-8:31; Bo Horvat-6:01; Emerson Etem-6:41; Chris Tanev-6:46; Ben Hutton-7:40; Matt Bartkowski-6:19; Daniel Sedin-5:40; Henrik Sedin-5:37; Alex Biega-4:57
Teams Corsi For:
- Even Strength: Vancouver-6; Kings-19
- All Strengths: Canucks-9; Los Angeles-23
- Top Canucks:
  - All Situations: Alex Burrows -1; Andrey Pedan -1
  - Even Strength: Alex Burrows, Alex Biega and Andrey Pedan: -1 each

Los Angeles would continue where they left off in the first period, but push back by the Canucks would be quicker than it was in the opening period, as Horvat and Dorsett were buzzing around Kings goalie Jonathan Quick.

The Sedins would try a give and go that would lead to the Kings get the puck, leading to the go ahead goal at 9:15. Kyle Clifford, his 3rd goal of the season, deflecting Andy Andreoff (2) pass for the goal.

With 6:30 left, the Canucks were out shooting the Kings, 7-5, still losing face-off battles, 3 for 11; and even in hits at 6 each.

Vancouver would be back on the power play as Vincent Lecavalier would get some rest time for slashing Daniel Sedin at 13:30. They would get a two-man advantage at 14:20, for 1:10, when Brayden McNabb would be punished with an illegal check to head of Alex Burrows.

Jannick Hansen would score on the 5-on-3, his 21rst goal of the season, assisted by Henrik Sedin (43) and Daniel Sedin (33), to make the score 2-2. Canucks second power play goal in 15 games. It was Hansen’s first ppg of the season.

In the last minute of this period, it would be Vancouver who would score again, this time Jared McCann, would get the puck on a turnover and go in all alone on Quick, shooting high on the Kings goalie to bury it on the breakway, giving the Canucks a 3-2 lead going into the 2nd period intermission.

Jared McCann, his 9th goal of the season, unassisted at 19:27.

VANCOUVER, BC – APRIL 4: Jared McCann #91 of the Vancouver Canucks is congratulated at the bench after scoring against the Los Angeles Kings during their NHL game at Rogers Arena April 4, 2016 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Vancouver won 3-2. (Photo by Jeff Vinnick/NHLI via Getty Images)

In the second period:

Vancouver out shot Los Angeles 12 to 9 and won 7 of 18 face-offs.
Canucks and Kings had 7 hits each.
Canucks face-off leaders: Markus Granlund-2 for 7; Bo Horvat-3 for 3; Brendan Gaunce-0 for 2; Henrik Sedin-2 for 6
After two periods: D. Sedin-4 shots; E. Etem-3 shots.
Vancouver Time On Ice: Alex Biega-5:40; Dan Hamhuis-8:02; Chris Tanev-4:17; Ben Hutton-7:05; Henrik Sedin-6:09; Matt Bartkowski-6:03; Jannick Hansen-5:40; Daniel Sedin-6:48; Nikita Tryamkin-7:01
Teams Corsi For:
- Even Strength: Los Angeles-16; Vancouver-14
- All Strengths: Kings-16; Canucks-18
- Top Canucks After Two Periods:
  - All Situations: Bo Horvat +1
  - Even Strength: Alex Biega +2

The third period would come down to who wanted the win more, and both teams played hard, trying to leave everything on the ice when the third period buzzer sounded.

Nikita Tryamkin would give the Kings a man advantage when sent off at 15:15 for holding on Anze Kopitar. Canucks would kill the penalty mking it 2 for 2 in the game.

With two minutes it was anybodys game with the score 3-2 Vancouver. Miller standing on his head in the last half of the period, and the Kings driving hard on the Canucks net.

With 21 second the Kings would have a 6th attacker but all for not as the Canucks would hold on for their first three game winning streak of the season, all three wins coming against the NHL California hockey teams.

In the third period:

Vancouver was out shot by Los Angeles 20 to 6 and only won 8 of 20 face-offs.
Canucks out hit by Kings 7 to 4.
Canucks Time On Ice: Dan Hamhuis-6:36; Daniel Sedin-5:32; Henrik Sedin- 5:20; Chris Tanev-6:45; Ben Hutton-7:28; Jannick Hansen-6:24; Matt Bartkowski-7:05; Bo Horvat-6:31; Alex Biega-6:40; Nikita Tryamkin-5:40
Teams Corsi For:
- Even Strength: Vancouver-11; Los Angeles-26
- All Strengths: Kings-32; Canucks-11

End Of The Game:

Vancouver finished with 24 shots, Los Angeles 42 shots, and Canucks won 21 of 57 face-offs.
Vancouver had 19 hits to the Kings 24 hits.
Canucks penalty kill was 2 for 2; power play was 1 for 4.
Vancouver Time On Ice: Ben Hutton-22:13; Dan Hamhuis-23:09; Matt Bartkowski-19:06; Chris Tanev-17:48; Daniel Sedin-18:00; Henrik Sedin-20:11; Alex Biega-17:17; Nikita Tryamkin-17:40
Teams Corsi For:
- Even Strength: Kings-61; Canucks-31
- All Strengths: Kings-71; Vancouver-38
- Top Canucks in game:
  - All Situations: Alex Biega -1
  - Even Strength: Alex Biega +2

Videos from the official Canucks YouTube channel here : http://www.youtube.com/Canucks

Pictures courtesy of the NHL, and with thanks.

Vancouver Hosts Los Angeles Tonight At Rogers Place

Posted on April 4, 2016 by CanucksBanter

CANUCKS BANTER By Andrew Chernoff April 4, 2016

CANUCKS VY FOR SEASON HIGH 3RD STRAIGHT WIN

The Vancouver Canucks (29-36-13) end their 5-game season series tonight against the Los Angeles Kings (46-27-5) at Rogers Place.

Los Angeles is 3-1-0 in the previous four games between the two Pacific division rivals.

Vancouver enters the game fresh from a successful sweep of consecutive California games against San Jose and Anaheim on March 31 and April 1. Against San Jose, the Canucks snapped a 9 game “winless” streak (0-8-1), 4-2.

Former Duck, Emerson Etem scored the wining goal against Anaheim with under seven minutes left in the game, for a 3-2 Canucks win. Jannick Hansen contributed two assists; Bo Horvat had a goal and an assist. Dan Hamhuis had the other Canuck goal; Henrik Sedin and Alex Biega each had one assist.

Jacob Markstrom snapped his five game “winless” streak with the victory, stopping 31 of 33 shots, for a .939 Sv%.

Los Angeles, 2-5-0 in the past seven games, are currently one point behind the first-place Anaheim Ducks with four games remaining.

Look for Ryan Miller to start in goal for the Canucks, coming off a 4-2 win against the San Jose Sharks on Thursday night, after going 0-3-1 in his previous four starts, snapping a 4-game “winless” streak.

Miller is 16-23-9 in 49 game starts this season, with a 2.63 GAA and .917 Sv%, 1 shutout. In his last 7 game starts, his is 2-4-1, with a 2.58 GAA and .927 Sv%.

For the Kings, Jonathan Quick is expect to start, and is 39-22-4, with a 2.21 GAA and .919 Sv%, 5 shutouts.

Vancouver Leaves California With Perfect Road Trip As Former Duck Etem Scores Winner In 3-2 Win

Posted on April 1, 2016 by CanucksBanter

CANUCKS BANTER By Andrew Chernoff April 1, 2016

The Vancouver Canucks (29-36-13) ended their 2-game California road trip tonight against the Anaheim Ducks (43-24-10), finishing off their 5-game season series, with a 3-2 win.

The Canucks snapped a 9 game “winless” streak (0-8-1), against the San Jose Sharks the night before 4-2 and were looking for a second consecutive win to sweep their road trip.

The Ducks entered the game having won five of their last seven games(5-1-1), and were looking to take top spot in the Pacific division with a win.

Former Anaheim Duck, Emerson Etem scored the wining goal with under seven minutes left in the game; Jannick Hansen contributed two assists; Bo Horvat had a goal and an assist. Dan Hamhuis had the other Canuck goal; Henrik Sedin and Alex Biega each had one assist.

ANAHEIM, CA – APRIL 01: Emerson Etem #26 of the Vancouver Canucks celebrates his goal with Bo Horvat #53 and Brendan Gaunce #50 to take a 3-2 lead over the Anaheim Ducks during the third period at Honda Center on April 1, 2016 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

Jacob Markstrom snapped his five game losing streak with the victory, stopping 31 of 33 shots, for a .939 Sv%.

Both Chris Higgins and Linden Vey left the game late in the second period and did not return for the rest of the game.