Cody Hodgson Could Stick with the Canucks

Vancouver Canucks coach Alain Vigneault believes that one of the biggest assets of prized prospect Cody Hodgson is his ability to not become frazzled under pressure. This 2008 Canucks first round draft choice will have every single move he makes at training camp scrutinized by not only the Vancouver media but also die hard fans as well. Believing that their team can contend for the Stanley Cup Vancouver has become a serious hockey town which means a lot of pressure will be placed on this 19 year-old’s shoulders to perform. Still Vigneault is convinced that Hodgson who is coming off a monster year of 92 points with Brampton (OHL), is mature beyond his years and won’t be affected. “I think all players have to be able to handle pressure, and pressure in a market like Vancouver is there on a daily basis,” said Vigneualt. “I think Cody, in the past, has handled himself really well in situation where there has been a lot of pressure and I don’t see why it should be any different.” During the off-season Vancouver management along with fans got a huge scare when it was reported that Hodgson who last season played a major role in leading Canada to a Golf Medal at the World Junior Championships and was named OHL player of the year, badly hurt his back working out. As of early September people in BC are breathing a little easier as Hodgson has been cleared to skate but still can’t partake in any contact drills. Even though he wasn’t cleared for the upcoming rookie tournament in Edmonton, Hodgson is still very optimistic about training camp and the possibilities of grabbing a roster spot. “It’s a great opportunity,” Hodgson said about camp that opens on September 12. “Obviously no one is guaranteed a spot but I’m going to work for it. I’ve done all I can in Junior and now it’s time to move on. On the top two scoring lines the Canucks are lacking depth at center so that’s where Hodgson who has 223 career points in the OHL might be best slated. Only time will tell and Hodgson isn’t taking anything for granted. Still it’s pretty evident that he has Vigneault in his corner. “We’re looking forward to see what he can do at this level,” said the Canucks coach. “He’s definitely going to get every opportunity to show his stuff and I’m confident that he’s going to do real well.”