Preface: Before going on in this prediction, I'd like to state something that I haven't yet gotten to in the Minnesota, Edmonton, or Colorado previews.
The division standings at the bottom of the previews don't have points for a reason—I'm refraining from deciding how good or bad a team does with a solid numeric value, because none of us know.
It's fun to sepculate position within the division, but to be honest, all five teams in one division could make the playoffs, making a "how many points are they going to get" aspect, redundant.
Just because I rank a team fourth or fifth, doesn't mean that I'm assuming they won't be competitive—some of the most competitive teams are the ones that suffer through the worst seasons.
Anyway, back to the task at hand...
Can anyone imagine the Vancouver Canucks any differently?
For a very long time, the "Mother Canuckers" have had the same system of leadership heading up their team. Now, management has decided that it's time for a change.
The players designated as the "leaders" last season couldn't return the 'Nucks to the promise land, so why not try to get younger, and develop leadership from within?
Well, I don't know how well that'll go, but good on the Canucks for trying.
Roster Additions: Kyle Wellwood-F (F.A.), Steve Bernier-F (Trade/Sign), Pavol Demitra-F (F.A.), Nolan Baumgartner-D (F.A.)
Roster Subtractions: Brad Isbister-F (F.A.), Aaron Miller-D (F.A.), Markus Naslund-F (F.A.), Brenden Morrison-F (F.A.), Trevor Linden-F ( Retirement), Luc Bourdon-D (Deceased)
How did 2007/08 go? 39-33-10, 88 points, 11th in Conference, last in Northwest division
2008/09 Goal: Top Ten in Conference, Make the playoffs
Let's break'er down...
For the Vancouver Canucks, last season was just a repeat of all the troubles that have dogged this franchise since the lockout ended.
Since 2000/01, the Canucks had made the playoffs every single season. Then the lockout hit. Following the lockout, the Canucks have only seen post season action once in the past three seasons, and they’ve become one of the more dogged franchises in the NHL, and the 2008/09 season may be just as troublesome.
Well, at least we’ve got Roberto…
One of the premier netminders in the NHL will be back on the West Coast for a third straight year.
After appearing in 149 games over the past two seasons, Roberto Luongo will be back between the pipes for the Vancouver Canucks, looking to lead the team back to the post season as he did in his first season on the west coast.
We're going to send you the most entertaining Vancouver Canucks articles, videos, and podcasts from around the web.
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