Ever since their 3–0 loss to Nashville on No. 1 the Canucks have turned their season around. They said goodbye to a terrible October and have gone on to post an impressive home record and currently sit second in the North West division division, one win away from being on top.The first half of the season can be characterized by a terribly slow start, speculation that they aren’t good enough beyond Luongo, can’t score enough beyond the Sedins. Can Naslund regain his scoring touch?
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Overall though the Canucks have overcome terrible blueline injuries and have really committed to Coach Vingneault system. A system that as a fan can be boring at times, but one that seems to get results. Wins. And ultimately that’s all that counts.
Their rookies have been impressive especially defenseman Alexander Edler. But heading into the second half certain questions emerge:
Are the rookies for real? Can Edler sustain his great play for the entire season and playoffs.
Can Naslund keep up his re-emergence as a scoring threat. Kesler has become one of the leagues best shut- down centres, but is he tough enough? Is the whole team tough enough?
Do they still need more secondary scoring heading into the playoffs? The answer surely has to be yes. Last year even though they ultimately beat Dallas in the first round, they were shutout three times in the series. Unacceptable.
The defence must get healthier heading into the second half of the season and into playoffs. The return of Bieksa and Ohlund will help.
But any team with Roberto Luongo in net has a chance of winning every night. If the Canucks can add some scoring at the deadline, they may become an exciting team to watch once again. Not just playing not to lose, but playing to win.
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7 months ago
The Canucks will definately elevate their game when the injured guys come back, but you're right, Nonis still has some tweaking to do.
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