Vancouver Canucks: Can They Survive If Daniel Sedin's Return Is Delayed?

After participating in a full practice on Monday, Daniel Sedin sat out of practice yesterday, sparking speculation that he may have suffered a setback. While coach Alain Vigneault insists this wasn't a setback, it still has people wondering.  

And after reports that Daniel Sedin will not be playing tonight, it's time we accept the reality that some, if not all, of the first round will be played without Daniel Sedin, 

It's a no-brainer that if this happens, being without the team's leading goalscorer and former Art Ross winner will impact the team. But the question is, how much will it impact them? Will the absence of Daniel Sedin be a reason for an early exit? Or will it be a hurdle they overcome in the heroic quest for the cup?

In my opinion, it will be the latter of the two options for one simple reason: The better twin is in the lineup.  

I have always been a firm believer that Henrik Sedin is far more talented than Daniel. While nobody is better at putting the puck in the net after an incredible pass from Hank than Daniel, other can still do it. On many plays, by the time Henrik Sedin is done with it, the puck lands on a Canuck stick right in front of the net with no goalie in sight.  

While Daniel Sedin is talented, he relies on Henrik's passes to get it done much more than Henrik relies on Daniel to finish it.  

My theory has been proven right time and time again. When Daniel missed 19 games to injury two seasons ago, his brother won the Art Ross Trophy with 112 points. In the final nine games of this season, played without Daniel Sedin, Henrik picked up 11 points while leading the Canucks to a second consecutive President's Trophy and ending the season with an 8-1-0 record.  

Henrik's incredible passing abilities were showcased while converting Maxim Lapierre—a fourth-liner with one goal in his previous 47 games—into an elite goal scorer.  

Obviously, the Canucks would love to get Daniel Sedin back for the playoffs, but if he's not ready, it's not worth it. The ugly truth about concussions is that setbacks can come at any time, and the ugly truth about playoffs is that players overestimate their health.  

If Daniel does end up missing more games after tonight, Canuck fans should not fret, as the team captain, Henrik Sedin, will lead this team to victory.