Game Recap:
-The fluke shorthanded goal told the story. It simply was not the Canucks night. The Canucks were defeated after the second Canadiens goal that was assisted by the Canucks. British Columbia native and Habs netminder Carey Price stole the show stopping 39 shots, letting only one puck slip by him. Montreal native and Canucks netminder Robero Luongo let four slip by him on 38 shots.
-The Canucks actually did a good job and had their best output of shots on the season. They had several good scoring chances throughout the game, but just could not find the finishing touch they ultimately needed. The Habs speedy forwards caused some trouble for the Canucks slow defensive unit. They had lots of drive to the Canucks and Luongo was challenged several times throughout the game.
-Canucks defensemen Jason Garrison registered a team high 10 shots on goal against the Habs. He continues to impress with his offensive output and continues to try and pitch in some goals from the blueline. He is having a great season so far under the new Torts coached Canucks.
Concerns:
-Second Line: I'm trying to give Ryan Kesler any kind of hope. He looks very discouraged and unmotivated out there. He is playing with line mates that are not his caliber of player. Kesler has been invisible to start this season. Kesler has one goal this season. Chris Higgins has scored no goals this season. David Booth has one goal on the season. Jannik Hansen has 2 goals. There is not much secondary scoring in the Canucks lineup.
-Powerplay: the Canucks powerplay (or should we say powerless-play) is ranked 25th in the NHL. The Canucks do not have a quality 2nd powerplay unit that generates lots of chances or goals. The 2nd powerplay unit usually makes it easy for the opposition by turning the puck over. The 2nd powerplay unit needs a true centre who can move the puck around and stretch the ice out while in the zone.
-2 Week Long East Road Trip: the Canucks hit the road east for a 7 game swing. The Canucks will make stops in Philadelphia, Buffalo, Pittsburgh, Columbus, NY Islanders, New Jersey, and St. Louis. All of these teams have some speed in their forward corps that could cause the Canucks issues. Will the Canucks come back home to Vancouver above .500? October is usually the Canucks slowest month. Can they at least break even on this long road trip? We could find out what kind of identity the Canucks really have after this trip.
Canucks Three Stars (against Habs):
1. Jason Garrison
2. Henrik Sedin
3. Mike Santorelli
Until next time, stay classy! -George
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