Game Notes: Vancouver vs. St. Louis, April 15, 2009

Before tonight’s 2-1 win in Game 1 of their first-round series against the St. Louis Blues, I posted some question marks going into the playoffs. One game may not mean a whole lot in the grand scheme of things, but let’s see how the Canucks have managed to answer my questions so far. Continue Reading »

Date: April 15th, 2009 | Comments: No Comments »

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Canucks: Questions to be Answered

The Vancouver Canucks have several known quantities going into the 2009 NHL Playoffs. We know that Roberto Luongo’s kleptomania will kick in, we know that Willie Mitchell will clear the crease and make Superman poke checks, we know that Ryan Johnson will block shots, and we know that Ryan Kesler will make an impact at both ends of the rink.

Here’s what we don’t know: Continue Reading »

Date: April 15th, 2009 | Comments: 1 Comment »

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2009 Playoffs: Predictions and Preferences

Western Conference

San Jose Sharks (1) vs. Anaheim Ducks (8)

  • My Preference: San Jose
  • My Expectation: San Jose wins in 5 games.

Detroit Red Wings (2) vs. Columbus Blue Jackets (7)

  • My Preference: Columbus
  • My Expectation: Detroit wins in 5 games.

Vancouver Canucks (3) vs. St. Louis Blues (6)

  • My Preference: Vancouver
  • My Expectation: Vancouver wins in 6 games.

Chicago Blackhawks (4) vs. Calgary Flames (5)

  • My Preference: Chicago
  • My Expectation: Chicago wins in 7 games.

Eastern Conference

Boston Bruins (1) vs. Montreal Canadiens (8)

  • My Preference: Boston
  • My Expectation: Boston wins in 5 games.

Washington Capitals (2) vs. New York Rangers (7)

  • My Preference: Washington
  • My Expectation: Washington wins in 6 games.

New Jersey Devils (3) vs. Carolina Hurricanes (6)

  • My Preference: New Jersey
  • My Expectation: Carolina wins in 6 games.

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) vs. Philadelphia Flyers (5)

  • My Preference: Philadelphia
  • My Expectation: Philadelphia wins in 7 games.

Date: April 15th, 2009 | Comments: No Comments »

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Canucks Playoffs Preview

The Vancouver Canucks are back in the playoffs this year after a disappointing finish last season, and if they want to improve on 2007’s second-round exit they’re going to need superlative performances from some key players.

It starts with the captain. In the first round of the 2007 playoffs, Roberto Luongo was unbelievable (Scott Neidermayer’s season-ending softie notwithstanding). Though the Canucks’ captain has gone through periods of inconsistency this year, he’s demonstrated in recent games against Calgary and Los Angeles that he’s ready for another big post-season campaign.

But 2007 proved that goaltending alone is not enough. Continue Reading »

Date: April 15th, 2009 | Comments: No Comments »

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Now Playing: Calgary vs. Edmonton

It’s game 82 of the season for both Calgary and Edmonton tonight, and neither team has much to play for. Neither team can improve their place in the standings with a win tonight. After Vancouver defeated Colorado this afternoon, the Flames know they’re going to finish in fifth in the Western Conference and play the fourth-place Chicago Blackhawks in the first round of the playoffs. Edmonton is going to finish in 11th place, on the outside looking in. Of the two teams, Calgary has more to play for. They’ve had a subpar second half to the season and have run out of time to right the ship. A win tonight would definitely help their confidence.

I can’t decide who I’d rather have win this game. As a Canucks fan, I always like to see Calgary lose. And I have to admit I have a soft spot for the young guns in Chicago, so anything that would keep Calgary’s confidence low and improve Chicago’s chance of beating them is fine by me.

Despite this, I can’t really get behind cheering for Edmonton. Here’s why. Continue Reading »

Date: April 11th, 2009 | Comments: No Comments »

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