Vancouver-Edmonton: Thoughts on Cody Hodgson's First Preseason Game of 2010

September 26th versus the Oilers was the first time Cody Hodgson played a game for the Canucks with a healthy back.

Actually, it was the first time he has played a game at any level with a healthy back since April 2009 with the Manitoba Moose in the AHL playoffs. That is a long 18 months of rehab.

So how did Hodgson do? 

In a game where the Canucks got shell-shocked 8-2, Hodgson wasn't even the best rookie on the ice. Jordan Eberle, drafted 12 spots after Hodgson in the 2008 draft, was the best rookie, putting up two goals and an assist. (Eberle is my pick for the Calder this year)

But Hodgson was one of the better Canuck forwards in the game. One of only two Canucks skaters to be a plus player (Victor Oreskovich was the other), Hodgson was a plus-one for the night. 

Altogether Hodgson played 17:40, and directed seven shots at the Oilers' net (two shots, three blocked shots and two more missed shots). While he didn't pick up an assist, Hodgson did provide a nice screen on Kesler's goal as he cruised through the crease and attempted to tip the wrist shot. 

Most importantly, his back held up during the game, as Hodgson took a few hits and was credited with two hits of his own. 

There isn't much good you can say about a player on the wrong end of an 8-2 loss, but Canucks fans can take heart that Hodgson played well considering the circumstances, and should improve with more games.  

Look to see him dress in the Canucks' next exhibition game against the Sharks on Tuesday September 28th.