Robeto Luongo and CO. Bringing Cup To Vancouver?

The Vancouver Canucks are on a tear of late winning 15 of the past 18. The team has won nine straight at home.

Alex Burrows and Ryan Kesler are emerging into bonafide NHL stars. The Canucks finally have two lines that can score with RPM and The Money Line (Sedins and Burrows). Kyle Wellwood has struggled of late but has the offensive skill to help out the 3rd line. Add a solid Defense anchored by Willie Mitchell and Mathais Ohlund and Roberto Luongo( a notorious late-starter) rounding into form, this team looks like they can make some noise in the Playoffs.

The Canucks are looking like they will be playing the Blackhawks in the first round. Winning the division would be nice,but I don't see Calgary going into a major tail-spin. The Blackhawks seem like their Young stars like Kane and Towes are burning out after the hot start. The Canucks have an advantage at Goalie and I also like the Canucks better on defense because of the veterans.

Willie Mitchell is a beast to play against in the playoffs (Ask Todd Bertuzzi). The Blackhawks might have more speed with the forwards but what they are lacking is experience in the playoffs. Even though the Twins have not had ideal playoff experiences, they still have played a combined 80+ playoff games, more then Kane and Towes. Don't forget Grandpa Sundin has many playoffs scars putting the Maple Laughs on his back throughout years.The Canucks will take the 'Hawks in 6.

The Detroit Red Wings are a example of how a hockey team should be run. Year after year the Wings are among the best. For some reason this brings out the best in the Vancouver Canucks. Take the 2002 1st round playoffs Canucks jumped out to a 2-0 series lead heading home, until Dan Cloutier's goalie gaffe. Ever since then the Canucks have had their fare share of success against the Wings. With Chris Osgood, the Wings look real shaky in net. Goalie issues is the last thing you need in the playoffs. I think the Canucks are tougher then the Wings and will grind out the Red Wings in 6. Roberto Luongo will have a big role in winning the series.

Stay tuned for part 2 of Roberto Luongo and Co. bringing Lord Stanley to Vancouver?