Predictions about the Vancouver Canucks and other NHL matters that you can't take to the bank or live by as 2016 unfolds ...
1. Willie Desjardins will make the Canucks a better team.
Desjardins has been maligned for his extensive use of goaltender Ryan Miller, who is just coming back from an injury, line combinations and late-game coaching tactics. But the funny thing is that the Vancouver Canucks coach still has his team challenging for a playoff spot in a Pacific Division in which everybody but Los Angeles has struggled. Despite a plethora of injuries and some bad spells, Desjardins has figured out a way to muddle through at the worst of times -- despite a blatant lack of production from veterans. He has done so while deploying numerous young players who have made their NHL debuts.
Predecessors John Tortorella and Alain Vigneault, who were not inclined to trust young players, would have been hard-pressed to match his feats. Despite Tortorella's comment that veterans were "stale" as he exited Vancouver, the former Canucks coach refused to gamble on centre Bo Horvat and quickly shipped him back to junior. And, Torts is not doing much of anything with a youth-laden Columbus Blue Jackets lineup now.
Vigneault did not face as much pressure to go with youth while guiding the Canucks to a pair of President's trophies, and he received little recruiting help from former general manager Mike Gillis -- who struggled at drafting, to say the least. But it is doubtful that Vigneault would have had as much success as Desjardins.
Barring a total collapse, it says here, the Canucks will be in the playoff mix right until the end of the regular season. Years from now, players like Horvat, Sven Baertschi (who is starting to experience a career renaissance), Jake Virtanen, Alex Biega and Ben Hutton will be highly grateful for the help that they received from Desjardins in their early days in the NHL.
It remains to be seen how long Desjardins will stay in the league with them, because as the firing of his close friend Mike Johnston in Pittsburgh demonstrates, teams have little patience for bench bosses who get their first NHL head coaching jobs at the age of 57. (In case you have forgotten, both Johnston and Desjardins were 57 when hired.) But history now proves that Desjardins made an astute move by choosing the Canucks over the star-studded Penguins.
And, time will show that Desjardins, who has won a championship at every level at which he has coached, will make several more wily moves before leaving the Canucks bench.
2. Jake Virtanen will not be a liability.
Contrary to what many people might think, Canucks rookie Jake Virtanen is not a hot-head. Never mind the two penalties that he took on the same shift while playing for Canada against Finland at the world junior championships. While Virtanen admittedly let his emotions get the best of him on the second infraction, he is not likely to make the same mistake often.
Also, as demonstrated by his tying goal on Roberto Luongo in a comeback victory over the Florida Panthers, he can score at critical times. The marker, which came in the final two minutes of the third period, was definitely a goal scorer's goal.
Many have questioned why Virtanen has not been returned to junior, but the fact is that he can make an effective contribution while the Canucks continue to transition to a younger roster. Despite critics' complaints about a lack of production, he is producing a point roughly once every four games -- and several Vancouver vets would like to have that kind of efficiency.
Virtanen's numbers are not great, but still likely to improve by the end of the regular season as his confidence and playing time increase. Don't be surprised if you see him playing late in games more often.
3. The Canucks makeover is far from complete.
While Canucks GM Jim Benning has commenced his youth movement in earnest, his roster tinkering has barely begun. With veterans like Dan Hamhuis, Radim Vrbata and Chris Higgins (now in the minors) slated to become free agents and millions of dollars in salary cap space due to be cleared, Benning's next steps will involve the acquisition of more draft picks and high-priced veteran talent. The Canucks appear likely to be sellers at the trade deadline, while still attempting to secure a playoff spot.
First, the onus will be on unloading veterans as playoff rentals in exchange for draft picks, because other teams are not likely to surrender significant talent unless they want to -- and know they can -- sign Vancouver's castoffs.
In the offseason, Benning's primary aim will be to sign high-priced free agents, namely a stud defenceman and offensively gifted forward. Given the ongoing youth movement at centre, that offensive player is likely to be a winger. If Benning feels like gambling, he might also want to unload Miller, who has become increasingly prone to injury, at the deadline and free up $6 million that he is due to receive next season. Other clubs could be willing to pay a decent price for Miller as they seek post-season goaltending insurance. Otherwise, Benning will likely think hard about dealing him in the summer.
4. Steven Stamkos will be traded by the deadline.
It's getting too late in the game for Stamkos, who is due to become an unrestricted free agent, and the Tampa Bay Lightning braintrust to resolve their apparent rift. Stamkos is not even offering any platitudes about a desire to stay in Tampa if contract terms can be sorted out, and Lightning GM Steve Yzerman can not afford to let him walk for nothing.
The Lighnting captain's availability will cause seismic activity throughout the league, because some teams will be willing to pay a high price even if they can only get him for a Stanley Cup run. The ideal scenario would be for the Lightning to give Stamkos and his agent the chance to pursue a sign-and-trade deal.
Either way, Stamkos will likely get moved, and the trade will impact the Lightning and other teams beyond this season.
More than one team could be involved in a trade for him, and other clubs will likely make moves in response as they chase the Stanley Cup. With some blue-chip prospects available in this year's draft, high-end picks could also come into play and add to the deal's future impact on a number of teams.
5. The Toronto Maple Leafs will make several trades by the deadline.
See above re: Stamkos. The Leafs, who are looking to unload veterans and their big contracts, will likely be among the finalists in the bidding for Stamkos either at the trade deadline or through free agency. The Toronto native is an obvious franchise player to build around as coach Mike Babcock continues to implement a culture of winning and Leafs management aims to develop a younger, more talented roster.
By acquiring Stamkos before he becomes a free agent, the Leafs would have an exclusive period in which only they could negotiate a long-term contract with him. Also, the departure of veterans could help ensure that the Leafs finish low in the standings and get an early draft pick. Such a scenario might result in highly touted American prospect Auston Matthews or another world junior star heading to Toronto.
Babcock would not let the Leafs tank, but he wouldn't complain about a lottery pick.
Showing posts with label NHL Stanley Cup. Show all posts
Showing posts with label NHL Stanley Cup. Show all posts
Wednesday, January 13, 2016
Friday, May 8, 2015
Babcock's days in Detroit appear numbered
Mike Babcock's marriage to the Detroit Red Wings appears all but over.
As reported Friday, Babcock has expressed a desire to consider other options, and the Red Wings are willing to let them talk to other teams before his contract expires in July. Babcock has stated that he could still return to Detroit, and the Wings would clearly love to have him back. But this situation makes two points clear: Babcock is not committed to Detroit, perhaps for a few weeks or maybe forever, and the Red Wings are willing to let him go.
Granted, relations would have been damaged if the Red Wings had not granted him permission to talk to other teams before his contract expires, because the club would then have an angry coach that it still wants to keep and might have to work with. Also, the Wings could miss out on some other qualified coaching candidates, such as former San Jose Sharks bench boss Todd McLellan, who is a former Detroit assistant.
In turn, the Wings could also miss out on signing some unrestricted free agents, who view a potential team's coach as a key factor in their decisions. Babcock would also miss out on jobs elsewhere, because teams like to have coaches in place for free agency and planning purposes, often before the draft in late June or the July 1 free agent frenzy.
Both the Red Wings and Babcock are being decent by keeping options open. The Red Wings, who have made two contract offers, could have simply let him go while continuing to pay him until July. Also, Babcock could have stated that he won't be back.
Babcock earned such treatment after helping the Wings reach the Stanley Cup finals in 2008, when they beat Pittsburgh, and 2009 when they lost to the Penguins. He has also helped the Red Wings qualify for the playoffs in 24 straight years. Babcock has gone 527-285-119 with 19 ties in 12 NHL seasons, sports an 82-62 record in the Stanley Cup playoffs, and led Canada to gold medals in the last two Olympics. He also led the Anaheim Ducks to the Stanley Cup finals in 2003.
Both sides are showing their professionalism and respectful relationship by keeping options open, but the Red Wings are also preparing for Babcock's departure. General manager Ken Holland is not allowing other teams to talk to Jeff Blashill, coach of the Wings' AHL affiliate in Grand Rapids, Mich. Holland has stated that Blashill would be a candidate for the Detroit position if Babcock leaves.
The Red Wings like to develop coaches and players from within, so Blashill would have a good chance of being promoted. It's hard to say why Babcock wants to consider other jobs. The Red Wings, owned by Mikke Ilitch, are a wealthy organizations that can afford to meet, or at least come close enough, to his salary target, and Babcock does not have a desire to be a GM. While he might have a strong desire to win now, the Red Wings have considerable young talent on their roster and in the pipeline to offset the eventual losses of superstars Henrik Zetterberg and Pavel Datsyuk. It won't be long before they are strong Cup contenders again.
Babcock might just want a change or a new challenge or the opportunity to work in Canada. You are not likely to find out the reasons unless Babcock moves to another team. His options are plentiful as Toronto, Buffalo, San Jose and Philadelphia have openings, while Edmonton GM Peter Chiarelli has said he will reach out to him, although Todd Nelson is still the Oilers coach for now. The strong likelihood of Edmonton choosing Connor McDavid first overall could appeal strongly to Babcock when he decides where to go. Other teams without coaching vacancies, unusual suspects as now, might also make moves if they can get Babcock. For instance, Claude Julien's future in Boston is in question, and Los Angeles Kings coach Darryl Sutter appears to be dealing with a player mutiny after the 2013-14 Stanley Cup champions missed the playoffs.
All of these factors increase the likelihood of Babcock leaving Detroit.
As reported Friday, Babcock has expressed a desire to consider other options, and the Red Wings are willing to let them talk to other teams before his contract expires in July. Babcock has stated that he could still return to Detroit, and the Wings would clearly love to have him back. But this situation makes two points clear: Babcock is not committed to Detroit, perhaps for a few weeks or maybe forever, and the Red Wings are willing to let him go.
Granted, relations would have been damaged if the Red Wings had not granted him permission to talk to other teams before his contract expires, because the club would then have an angry coach that it still wants to keep and might have to work with. Also, the Wings could miss out on some other qualified coaching candidates, such as former San Jose Sharks bench boss Todd McLellan, who is a former Detroit assistant.
In turn, the Wings could also miss out on signing some unrestricted free agents, who view a potential team's coach as a key factor in their decisions. Babcock would also miss out on jobs elsewhere, because teams like to have coaches in place for free agency and planning purposes, often before the draft in late June or the July 1 free agent frenzy.
Both the Red Wings and Babcock are being decent by keeping options open. The Red Wings, who have made two contract offers, could have simply let him go while continuing to pay him until July. Also, Babcock could have stated that he won't be back.
Babcock earned such treatment after helping the Wings reach the Stanley Cup finals in 2008, when they beat Pittsburgh, and 2009 when they lost to the Penguins. He has also helped the Red Wings qualify for the playoffs in 24 straight years. Babcock has gone 527-285-119 with 19 ties in 12 NHL seasons, sports an 82-62 record in the Stanley Cup playoffs, and led Canada to gold medals in the last two Olympics. He also led the Anaheim Ducks to the Stanley Cup finals in 2003.
Both sides are showing their professionalism and respectful relationship by keeping options open, but the Red Wings are also preparing for Babcock's departure. General manager Ken Holland is not allowing other teams to talk to Jeff Blashill, coach of the Wings' AHL affiliate in Grand Rapids, Mich. Holland has stated that Blashill would be a candidate for the Detroit position if Babcock leaves.
The Red Wings like to develop coaches and players from within, so Blashill would have a good chance of being promoted. It's hard to say why Babcock wants to consider other jobs. The Red Wings, owned by Mikke Ilitch, are a wealthy organizations that can afford to meet, or at least come close enough, to his salary target, and Babcock does not have a desire to be a GM. While he might have a strong desire to win now, the Red Wings have considerable young talent on their roster and in the pipeline to offset the eventual losses of superstars Henrik Zetterberg and Pavel Datsyuk. It won't be long before they are strong Cup contenders again.
Babcock might just want a change or a new challenge or the opportunity to work in Canada. You are not likely to find out the reasons unless Babcock moves to another team. His options are plentiful as Toronto, Buffalo, San Jose and Philadelphia have openings, while Edmonton GM Peter Chiarelli has said he will reach out to him, although Todd Nelson is still the Oilers coach for now. The strong likelihood of Edmonton choosing Connor McDavid first overall could appeal strongly to Babcock when he decides where to go. Other teams without coaching vacancies, unusual suspects as now, might also make moves if they can get Babcock. For instance, Claude Julien's future in Boston is in question, and Los Angeles Kings coach Darryl Sutter appears to be dealing with a player mutiny after the 2013-14 Stanley Cup champions missed the playoffs.
All of these factors increase the likelihood of Babcock leaving Detroit.
Monday, April 27, 2015
Bieksa doesn't see himself leaving Canucks
Dan Hamhuis didn’t want to contemplate the question. Neither did Kevin Bieksa.
So the two Vancouver Canucks defencemen sidestepped the issue of whether they would agree to waive their no-trade clauses if asked by general manager Jim Benning.
“That’s something I never really thought of,” said Hamhuis as all Canuck players met with reporters Monday following their elimination from the Stanley Cup playoffs over the weekend. “I’m not really prepared to give an answer on that. It’s something I’ll probably think about if it ever happens.”
Bieksa offered a slightly more elaborate response, but still made his feelings clear. He is not looking to go anywhere after the Canucks lost in 4-2 in their opening-round playoff series with the Calgary Flames.
“I’ve never had to cross that bridge before,” said Bieksa. “I haven’t heard it brought up by anybody in the organization. I know you guys are poking around. It’s your job. But that’s not something I really even need to respond to.”
Bieksa and Hamhuis came under criticism after the Canucks fell 7-4 in Saturday’s decisive sixth game. The two blue-liners and others were blasted for allowing the Flames to overcome a 3-0 lead. Bieksa, who has spent his entire NHL career with the Canucks, said he has never been asked to waive his no-trade clause.
“My loyalty has always been to this organization and this city,” he said. “I love playing here. I don’t see anything else changing.”
The questions came up as critics called for the Canucks, who returned to the playoffs this season after missing out in 2013-14, to get younger in order to keep up with the Flames and other Western Conference rivals in the chase for a championship. But Bieksa and others said getting younger is not the sole solution to contending for the Stanley Cup.
“I don’t think you have to rebuild anymore,” said Bieksa. “I think you’re able to be competitive every year. I don’t think youth is always the answer. I don’t think making the team younger is going to help us get over the hump. You need the best players, regardless of how old they are.”
Henrik and Daniel Sedin, who were among the NHL’s top scorers in the regular season, echoed his sentiments as the issue of their ice time continued to come up. Last week, coach Willie Desjardins was blasted for not playing them enough. Monday, skeptics suggested the club might benefit if younger players get more action and increased offensive responsibilities.
But the twins tried to put the season in perspective despite Saturday’s disappointing loss. The Canucks finished second in the Pacific Division after sitting on the sidelines during the 2013-14 post-season.
“It’s a small step but a good step in the right direction,” said Henrik Sedin.
“As disappointing as it is, I think people should be excited about the future,” added Daniel Sedin.
They also dismissed the notion that the Canucks core, which was criticized by former coach John Tortorella last year as being stale, no longer has the skills needed to win the Stanley Cup within the next few seasons.
“We have no plans of getting any worse,” said Henrik Sedin. “We’re not young anymore, but we showed this year we can still be a big part of the group. We can play well, and I don’t see that changing in the next couple of years.”
In other words, the Canucks need more than just a fountain of youth to help them win their first NHL title since entering the league in 1970.
Henrik Sedin is calling for the Canucks to use a mix of youth and veteran savvy to get closer to a Stanley Cup title.
“There’s different ways to mature," he said. "If you look at teams that won, they brought the young guys up and the young guys made a difference.”
“We’re not getting younger, but I think we can still play, and I think we showed it this year,” added Daniel Sedin.
He and his brother praised Desjardins, Benning and president of hockey operations as a long-term solution that can bring Vancouver a long-sought championship. Some changes are inevitable, though.
Goaltender Eddie Lack’s future is in question because of the presence of veteran Ryan Miller, who has two years to go on a contract that pays him $6 million annually. Lack is due to become an unrestricted free agent after the 2015-16 season, and the Canucks will likely want to get some assets in return rather than risk losing him for nothing. Forwards Brad Richardson and Shawn Matthias will become unrestricted free agents this summer, and it appears likely that Matthias, who had a career year, will sign for a higher salary elsewhere.
Richardson will spend the summer recovering from ankle surgery, and it also appears that his days in Vancouver are numbered following an injury-plagued season.
Many of the adjustments will occur around the time of the NHL draft and the opening of free agency in late June and early July.
“I think Jim (Benning) and Trevor (Linden) have a clear plan with what they want do with this team, and we have a lot of confidence in the management in that department,” said Daniel Sedin.
Henrik Sedin said people have to understand how tough it is to make the playoffs now, noting talented Los Angeles, San Jose, Dallas and Colorado teams missed this year’s post-season. So the Canucks must continue to improve. The Sedins said they are aware of Benning and Linden’s plan for improving the club, but it was up to the managers to discuss it.
“They know what they need to do, and we have confidence in what they’re going to do to make us better,” said Henrik Sedin.
So the two Vancouver Canucks defencemen sidestepped the issue of whether they would agree to waive their no-trade clauses if asked by general manager Jim Benning.
“That’s something I never really thought of,” said Hamhuis as all Canuck players met with reporters Monday following their elimination from the Stanley Cup playoffs over the weekend. “I’m not really prepared to give an answer on that. It’s something I’ll probably think about if it ever happens.”
Bieksa offered a slightly more elaborate response, but still made his feelings clear. He is not looking to go anywhere after the Canucks lost in 4-2 in their opening-round playoff series with the Calgary Flames.
“I’ve never had to cross that bridge before,” said Bieksa. “I haven’t heard it brought up by anybody in the organization. I know you guys are poking around. It’s your job. But that’s not something I really even need to respond to.”
Bieksa and Hamhuis came under criticism after the Canucks fell 7-4 in Saturday’s decisive sixth game. The two blue-liners and others were blasted for allowing the Flames to overcome a 3-0 lead. Bieksa, who has spent his entire NHL career with the Canucks, said he has never been asked to waive his no-trade clause.
“My loyalty has always been to this organization and this city,” he said. “I love playing here. I don’t see anything else changing.”
The questions came up as critics called for the Canucks, who returned to the playoffs this season after missing out in 2013-14, to get younger in order to keep up with the Flames and other Western Conference rivals in the chase for a championship. But Bieksa and others said getting younger is not the sole solution to contending for the Stanley Cup.
“I don’t think you have to rebuild anymore,” said Bieksa. “I think you’re able to be competitive every year. I don’t think youth is always the answer. I don’t think making the team younger is going to help us get over the hump. You need the best players, regardless of how old they are.”
Henrik and Daniel Sedin, who were among the NHL’s top scorers in the regular season, echoed his sentiments as the issue of their ice time continued to come up. Last week, coach Willie Desjardins was blasted for not playing them enough. Monday, skeptics suggested the club might benefit if younger players get more action and increased offensive responsibilities.
But the twins tried to put the season in perspective despite Saturday’s disappointing loss. The Canucks finished second in the Pacific Division after sitting on the sidelines during the 2013-14 post-season.
“It’s a small step but a good step in the right direction,” said Henrik Sedin.
“As disappointing as it is, I think people should be excited about the future,” added Daniel Sedin.
They also dismissed the notion that the Canucks core, which was criticized by former coach John Tortorella last year as being stale, no longer has the skills needed to win the Stanley Cup within the next few seasons.
“We have no plans of getting any worse,” said Henrik Sedin. “We’re not young anymore, but we showed this year we can still be a big part of the group. We can play well, and I don’t see that changing in the next couple of years.”
In other words, the Canucks need more than just a fountain of youth to help them win their first NHL title since entering the league in 1970.
Henrik Sedin is calling for the Canucks to use a mix of youth and veteran savvy to get closer to a Stanley Cup title.
“There’s different ways to mature," he said. "If you look at teams that won, they brought the young guys up and the young guys made a difference.”
“We’re not getting younger, but I think we can still play, and I think we showed it this year,” added Daniel Sedin.
He and his brother praised Desjardins, Benning and president of hockey operations as a long-term solution that can bring Vancouver a long-sought championship. Some changes are inevitable, though.
Goaltender Eddie Lack’s future is in question because of the presence of veteran Ryan Miller, who has two years to go on a contract that pays him $6 million annually. Lack is due to become an unrestricted free agent after the 2015-16 season, and the Canucks will likely want to get some assets in return rather than risk losing him for nothing. Forwards Brad Richardson and Shawn Matthias will become unrestricted free agents this summer, and it appears likely that Matthias, who had a career year, will sign for a higher salary elsewhere.
Richardson will spend the summer recovering from ankle surgery, and it also appears that his days in Vancouver are numbered following an injury-plagued season.
Many of the adjustments will occur around the time of the NHL draft and the opening of free agency in late June and early July.
“I think Jim (Benning) and Trevor (Linden) have a clear plan with what they want do with this team, and we have a lot of confidence in the management in that department,” said Daniel Sedin.
Henrik Sedin said people have to understand how tough it is to make the playoffs now, noting talented Los Angeles, San Jose, Dallas and Colorado teams missed this year’s post-season. So the Canucks must continue to improve. The Sedins said they are aware of Benning and Linden’s plan for improving the club, but it was up to the managers to discuss it.
“They know what they need to do, and we have confidence in what they’re going to do to make us better,” said Henrik Sedin.
Thursday, April 23, 2015
Hiller goes with flow as Canucks change goalies
While the Vancouver Canucks switched their goaltenders in a do-or-die situation, Jonas Hiller kept going with the flow Thursday.
Ryan Miller was in and Eddie Lack was out of the Canucks net, but there was no doubt that Hiller would start for the Calgary Flames after he had backstopped them to a 3-1 lead over Vancouver in their Western Conference quarter-final series.
However, it wasn’t always this way for Hiller, who is in his first season with the Flames after being cast aside by the Anaheim Ducks.
His starting status was in question at times this season as he played 52 games while compiling a 26-19-4 record, 2.36 goals-against average and .918 save percentage. He had to battle Karri Ramo for the No. 1 job, but solidified his place down the stretch while helping the Flames secure a playoff berth.
Hiller, a 33-year-old Switzerland native, has also battled concussion issues in the past. But he is not getting too excited about his strong run. He was not about to lobby for long-term starter status, either.
“I knew when I signed in Calgary it was going to be between me and Rammer,” said Hiller after Calgary’s morning skate. “Especially these days, it’s great to have two goalies who can help the team win on any given night, because with the travel and everything, it’s tough to play at your best for 82 games. To have the option and know somebody else is there and can carry the ball for a little bit, it’s great to have. I’m pretty happy to know that I can carry the ball right now and I’m playing well, but it can change quick.”
Hiller is gaining some enjoyment as he stands out for a Flames team that is in the playoffs for the first time since 2008-09. He helped the Flames get in despite a late eight-game losing skid. But he knows that success in the NHL is fleeting, and the battle for the No. 1 position is far from over.
“If you play in the NHL, you always have somebody who wants your job,” he said. “There’s always somebody who’s gonna be better than you. It’s definitely, not gonna be the last time. I’m sure, next year, it’s gonna be a similar situation. It’s part of (a goaltender's life in the NHL), but I’m definitely happy with the way I’m playing and the way I’m able to handle (the load) and always find a way to stay confident in myself and improve my game.”
Hiller said he has had to make some adjustments because of the Flames’ shot-blocking prowess. Their skill actually makes him more cautious and further back in his net in case opponents make an extra pass as their shooting lanes are blocked. Calgary defenceman Kris Russell said Hiller has been Calgary's best player in recent games. Russell added that Hiller reads plays well and is a calming influence because of the way he talks with teammates and helps them out.
“(Hiller) has been good for us all year,” said Russell. “There were a lot of questions coming in, because we had two hot goalies playing. They were two guys that were carrying the ship in their own right, and Rams was hot there for a while. We have a lot of trust in both our goaltenders; and, obviously, Hills has been huge for us this series. … So we’re gonna need him to continue that.”
Ryan Miller was in and Eddie Lack was out of the Canucks net, but there was no doubt that Hiller would start for the Calgary Flames after he had backstopped them to a 3-1 lead over Vancouver in their Western Conference quarter-final series.
However, it wasn’t always this way for Hiller, who is in his first season with the Flames after being cast aside by the Anaheim Ducks.
His starting status was in question at times this season as he played 52 games while compiling a 26-19-4 record, 2.36 goals-against average and .918 save percentage. He had to battle Karri Ramo for the No. 1 job, but solidified his place down the stretch while helping the Flames secure a playoff berth.
Hiller, a 33-year-old Switzerland native, has also battled concussion issues in the past. But he is not getting too excited about his strong run. He was not about to lobby for long-term starter status, either.
“I knew when I signed in Calgary it was going to be between me and Rammer,” said Hiller after Calgary’s morning skate. “Especially these days, it’s great to have two goalies who can help the team win on any given night, because with the travel and everything, it’s tough to play at your best for 82 games. To have the option and know somebody else is there and can carry the ball for a little bit, it’s great to have. I’m pretty happy to know that I can carry the ball right now and I’m playing well, but it can change quick.”
Hiller is gaining some enjoyment as he stands out for a Flames team that is in the playoffs for the first time since 2008-09. He helped the Flames get in despite a late eight-game losing skid. But he knows that success in the NHL is fleeting, and the battle for the No. 1 position is far from over.
“If you play in the NHL, you always have somebody who wants your job,” he said. “There’s always somebody who’s gonna be better than you. It’s definitely, not gonna be the last time. I’m sure, next year, it’s gonna be a similar situation. It’s part of (a goaltender's life in the NHL), but I’m definitely happy with the way I’m playing and the way I’m able to handle (the load) and always find a way to stay confident in myself and improve my game.”
Hiller said he has had to make some adjustments because of the Flames’ shot-blocking prowess. Their skill actually makes him more cautious and further back in his net in case opponents make an extra pass as their shooting lanes are blocked. Calgary defenceman Kris Russell said Hiller has been Calgary's best player in recent games. Russell added that Hiller reads plays well and is a calming influence because of the way he talks with teammates and helps them out.
“(Hiller) has been good for us all year,” said Russell. “There were a lot of questions coming in, because we had two hot goalies playing. They were two guys that were carrying the ship in their own right, and Rams was hot there for a while. We have a lot of trust in both our goaltenders; and, obviously, Hills has been huge for us this series. … So we’re gonna need him to continue that.”
Friday, April 17, 2015
Rookies making their mark in Flames-Canucks series
Rookies are making their mark in the Western Conference quarter final series between the Calgary Flames and Vancouver Canucks.
The Flames planned to dress five first-year players, including wingers Sam Bennett and Johnny Gaudreau, for the second straight contest in Friday's Game 2. The Canucks were expected to dress at least two rookies, centre Bo Horvat and winger Ronalds Kenins.
"They’re stepping in and playing hard," said Canucks coach Willie Desjardins about the rookies on both clubs. "I just think that’s the way of the new players. The young players, they’re confident in their ability and they feel they can come in and play – not just have ice time, but make a difference.”
Bennett turned heads by assisting on Calgary's winning goal, with only 29.6 seconds left, in the first game. It was only Bennett's second career NHL game, after he drew an assist in the first minute against Winnipeg.
His performance in Game 1 drew rave reviews from Calgary coach Bob Hartley, teammates and opponents alike.
“It’s part of his personality," said Hartley. "You’re talking about a fearless kid, a kid who wants to learn, a kid who wants to compete. I really thank God that we got him in the lineup. He’s probably the biggest pain that I’ve ever coached. This year, every day he was coming to me. He wanted to be in practice. He wanted to be in pre-game warm-ups, stuff like this.”
Bennett, the fourth overall pick in last summer's NHL draft, has excelled after missing most of the season due to shoulder surgery and playing in the latter stages of the campaign with his junior team. He initially hid the injury while attempting to make the Flames in the pre-season.
"There (were) many reports that the kid was not a good worker and couldn't do pull-ups (at the NHL combine) or anything," said Hartley. "When your shoulder is broken in pieces, but you won't tell anyone because you are a competitor and you want to be there, I think that speaks volumes about his character.
“Apparently, his shoulder was fine,” continued Hartley. “But now, today, we know that it wasn’t fine. He wanted to make our team so bad that all the pain was not a problem. Once we got him checked by our team doctors and a specialist, there was no way that he could keep going without a surgery. That’s the kind of player that we need in this organization if we’re going to make some great strides forward. Yes, you need talent, you need speed, but you need character.
"This kid is full of dynamite.”
Teammate Sean Monahan, an old foe in years gone by, was not surprised by Bennett's play.
“I played against him in the OHL," said Monahan. "He’s a good player and he’s gonna be good for a long time.”
Horvat, who also played against Bennett in the OHL was also impressed with his effort in only his second NHL game. They used to square off while Horvat was with London and Bennett toiled for Kingston.
"He’s a special player. ... He’s definitely gotten stronger, and it seems like he’s gotten a little faster,” said Horvat.
Horvat, a 20-year-old Rodney, Ont., also impressed as he scored Vancouver's only goal in his first career Stanley Cup playoff game.
Gaudreau, a leading candidate for the NHL Rookie of the Year award, would like to do better after struggling in Game 1. But the pint-sized Salem, N.J., native, who plays on Calgary's top line, still appreciates the opportunity to take part in the playoffs in his first pro season.
“It’s exciting," said Gaudreau, a Boston College product who was considered a long shot to reach the NHL after being drafted by Calgary in the fourth round (104th overall) in 2011. "I never thought I’d be in this kind of position before."
He praised older teammates for showing the way for him and the four other rookies who started Game 1.
"Thankfully, I had a lot of help from teammates throughout the season, and they really put me in this position.”
Gaudreau, a former Hobey Baker award winner as the top collegiate player in the U.S.
But according to Flames winger David Jones, who scored their first goal in Game 1, the rookies provided guidance for Calgary's older players.
“Even for a lot of us veterans, we don’t have a lot of playoff experience," said Jones. "So we’re all sort of in the same boat. The young guys kind of bring new life to all of us. I’m always impressed every year when guys that are 18, 19, 20 years old come in and play big minutes. When I was (Sam) Bennett’s age, I was still in Junior A.
“Just to show that kind of poise, the kind these guys have, always impresses me.”
The Flames planned to dress five first-year players, including wingers Sam Bennett and Johnny Gaudreau, for the second straight contest in Friday's Game 2. The Canucks were expected to dress at least two rookies, centre Bo Horvat and winger Ronalds Kenins.
"They’re stepping in and playing hard," said Canucks coach Willie Desjardins about the rookies on both clubs. "I just think that’s the way of the new players. The young players, they’re confident in their ability and they feel they can come in and play – not just have ice time, but make a difference.”
Bennett turned heads by assisting on Calgary's winning goal, with only 29.6 seconds left, in the first game. It was only Bennett's second career NHL game, after he drew an assist in the first minute against Winnipeg.
His performance in Game 1 drew rave reviews from Calgary coach Bob Hartley, teammates and opponents alike.
“It’s part of his personality," said Hartley. "You’re talking about a fearless kid, a kid who wants to learn, a kid who wants to compete. I really thank God that we got him in the lineup. He’s probably the biggest pain that I’ve ever coached. This year, every day he was coming to me. He wanted to be in practice. He wanted to be in pre-game warm-ups, stuff like this.”
Bennett, the fourth overall pick in last summer's NHL draft, has excelled after missing most of the season due to shoulder surgery and playing in the latter stages of the campaign with his junior team. He initially hid the injury while attempting to make the Flames in the pre-season.
"There (were) many reports that the kid was not a good worker and couldn't do pull-ups (at the NHL combine) or anything," said Hartley. "When your shoulder is broken in pieces, but you won't tell anyone because you are a competitor and you want to be there, I think that speaks volumes about his character.
“Apparently, his shoulder was fine,” continued Hartley. “But now, today, we know that it wasn’t fine. He wanted to make our team so bad that all the pain was not a problem. Once we got him checked by our team doctors and a specialist, there was no way that he could keep going without a surgery. That’s the kind of player that we need in this organization if we’re going to make some great strides forward. Yes, you need talent, you need speed, but you need character.
"This kid is full of dynamite.”
Teammate Sean Monahan, an old foe in years gone by, was not surprised by Bennett's play.
“I played against him in the OHL," said Monahan. "He’s a good player and he’s gonna be good for a long time.”
Horvat, who also played against Bennett in the OHL was also impressed with his effort in only his second NHL game. They used to square off while Horvat was with London and Bennett toiled for Kingston.
"He’s a special player. ... He’s definitely gotten stronger, and it seems like he’s gotten a little faster,” said Horvat.
Horvat, a 20-year-old Rodney, Ont., also impressed as he scored Vancouver's only goal in his first career Stanley Cup playoff game.
Gaudreau, a leading candidate for the NHL Rookie of the Year award, would like to do better after struggling in Game 1. But the pint-sized Salem, N.J., native, who plays on Calgary's top line, still appreciates the opportunity to take part in the playoffs in his first pro season.
“It’s exciting," said Gaudreau, a Boston College product who was considered a long shot to reach the NHL after being drafted by Calgary in the fourth round (104th overall) in 2011. "I never thought I’d be in this kind of position before."
He praised older teammates for showing the way for him and the four other rookies who started Game 1.
"Thankfully, I had a lot of help from teammates throughout the season, and they really put me in this position.”
Gaudreau, a former Hobey Baker award winner as the top collegiate player in the U.S.
But according to Flames winger David Jones, who scored their first goal in Game 1, the rookies provided guidance for Calgary's older players.
“Even for a lot of us veterans, we don’t have a lot of playoff experience," said Jones. "So we’re all sort of in the same boat. The young guys kind of bring new life to all of us. I’m always impressed every year when guys that are 18, 19, 20 years old come in and play big minutes. When I was (Sam) Bennett’s age, I was still in Junior A.
“Just to show that kind of poise, the kind these guys have, always impresses me.”
Thursday, April 9, 2015
Miller's return gives Canucks two goaltending options
The Vancouver Canucks will have two dependable NHL veteran goaltenders when the Stanley Cup playoffs begin.
Ryan Miller, out since Feb. 22 with a knee injury, dressed as the backup as the Canucks hosted the Arizona Coyotes on Thursday night. He is expected to start Saturday when the Canucks wrap up the regular season at home against the Edmonton Oilers.
As a result, coach Willie Desjardins can now choose from Eddie Lack, who has played most games in his absence, or Miller in the playoffs.
“I’m excited for the possibility here and I’m just trying to take it day by day and work my way into becoming an option first,” Miller said earlier this week.
Miller, in his first season with the Canucks, was unavailable to reporters Thursday as he stayed out on the ice late during an optional morning skate. He went into the dressing room after it was closed to media.
“I was pushing, trying to get back for one of the last games,” said Miller. “If I was going to have an opportunity to get some game action, that would be the hope.”
Miller has posted a 28-15-1 record with a 2.47 goals-against average and a .913 save percentage this season. Desjardins indicated Wednesday that he will start one regular-season game before the playoffs, leaving only Saturday’s contest against the Oilers.
“We’ll just have to monitor these next couple days to see where he’s at,” said Desjardins. “We’d like to get him in a game, but we’ll have to see where he’s at.”
The situation is reminiscent of past years when former Canucks Roberto Luongo and Cory Schneider battled for the No. 1 position. Desjardins has declined to name a starter until the post-season begins.
“You never make that decision right now,” said Desjardins. “That decision will be made before the first playoff game. But, saying that, I think Eddie’s played really well. We needed him to step up. We had a lot of hockey left without Ryan, and he did a terrific job for us and he certainly got us into the playoffs. So you always take that into consideration.”
The Canucks returned Jacob Markstrom to Utica of the AHL on Thursday. Markstrom has a 1-1-0 record in three appearances with Vancouver this season. He was with the Canucks on an emergency recall basis as a result of Miller’s injury.
Once Miller was deemed healthy enough to play, Markstrom had to return to the minors.
Ryan Miller, out since Feb. 22 with a knee injury, dressed as the backup as the Canucks hosted the Arizona Coyotes on Thursday night. He is expected to start Saturday when the Canucks wrap up the regular season at home against the Edmonton Oilers.
As a result, coach Willie Desjardins can now choose from Eddie Lack, who has played most games in his absence, or Miller in the playoffs.
“I’m excited for the possibility here and I’m just trying to take it day by day and work my way into becoming an option first,” Miller said earlier this week.
Miller, in his first season with the Canucks, was unavailable to reporters Thursday as he stayed out on the ice late during an optional morning skate. He went into the dressing room after it was closed to media.
“I was pushing, trying to get back for one of the last games,” said Miller. “If I was going to have an opportunity to get some game action, that would be the hope.”
Miller has posted a 28-15-1 record with a 2.47 goals-against average and a .913 save percentage this season. Desjardins indicated Wednesday that he will start one regular-season game before the playoffs, leaving only Saturday’s contest against the Oilers.
“We’ll just have to monitor these next couple days to see where he’s at,” said Desjardins. “We’d like to get him in a game, but we’ll have to see where he’s at.”
The situation is reminiscent of past years when former Canucks Roberto Luongo and Cory Schneider battled for the No. 1 position. Desjardins has declined to name a starter until the post-season begins.
“You never make that decision right now,” said Desjardins. “That decision will be made before the first playoff game. But, saying that, I think Eddie’s played really well. We needed him to step up. We had a lot of hockey left without Ryan, and he did a terrific job for us and he certainly got us into the playoffs. So you always take that into consideration.”
The Canucks returned Jacob Markstrom to Utica of the AHL on Thursday. Markstrom has a 1-1-0 record in three appearances with Vancouver this season. He was with the Canucks on an emergency recall basis as a result of Miller’s injury.
Once Miller was deemed healthy enough to play, Markstrom had to return to the minors.
Dorsett and Sbisa looking forward to long stays in Vancouver
Derek Dorsett got the long-term deal he wanted from the Vancouver Canucks. Now, he’s looking to build a future for himself, his family and his team.
The winger was pumped Thursday, a day after signing a new four-year contract with an annual salary cap hit of $2.65 million. The contract is the longest of the 28-year-old Kindersley, Sask., native’s NHL career.
“Me and my agents talked about trying to get a long-term commitment and, obviously, Vancouver made that offer,” he said as the Canucks prepared to face the Arizona Coyotes. “So we’re very happy with it and glad to be staying in Vancouver. That’s for sure.”
His previous three contracts ranged from two to three years.
“It means a lot,” he said of the contract length. “The ownership and management group have been nothing but great to me and my family. It’s a first-class organization, and I couldn’t be happier anywhere else. Being in Canada and being in a Canadian market and, obviously, it being a childhood dream to play in a Canadian market, now I get to do it for four years and work towards the goal that everyone wants to accomplish here – and that’s to win a Stanley Cup.”
Dorsett joined the Canucks in an off-season trade from the New York Rangers and has established a strong affection for the city after his son Dylan was born here. He has become a mainstay on a nominal fourth line with rookie centre Bo Horvat and fellow centre Jannik Hansen.
The line has been prominent down the stretch as the Canucks secured a playoff berth after a one-year absence from the post-season.
Before Thursday’s contest, Dorsett had posted single-season career highs in points (25) and assists (18). He was leading the Canucks in hits (163) and his team-leading 169 penalty minutes ranked fourth in the NHL.
“Coming into a locker-room full of guys that you’ve had some pretty good wars against, it can be a little difficult and nerve-wracking,” he said. “But the guys opened the locker-room with open arms. It just shows what kind of leaders are on this team and the character of guys that are in this locker-room. It’s been a lot of fun this year. And, as soon as I got here, (seeing) how welcoming they are to me and my family, it just made me realize that I wanted to be here long-term.”
Dorsett has earned praise from coach Willie Desjardins and general manager Jim Benning for his physical ways and his willingness to stand up for teammates in altercations. In coming years, Dorsett, who has also played for Columbus, which drafted him from the WHL’s Medicine Hat Tigers, also hopes to become active with charitable causes in Vancouver and be more of a mentor to younger players.
“I still remember the first times I walked into an NHL locker-room star-struck at some of the guys that were walking around,” he said. “When I was in Columbus, you had the likes of Sergei Federov, you had Anson Carter, you had Michael Peca and Freddie Modin, guys like that. Walking around, you see them and you get caught in the moment. I can remember times when those guys made me feel welcome and always had time to chat with me; or if I had any questions, to show the way. So (mentoring) is something I take pride in. I hope I can do that for the next four years to some of the young guys. We’ve got some young talent coming up that will help this team win down the road, and it’ll be a fun role to take on.”
But first, there’s a Stanley Cup to play for this season. Dorsett is glad that he won’t be distracted by contract issues as the Canucks chase a championship.
“It’s an important time of year and it’s obviously a relief to get it over with,” he said.
Meanwhile, defenceman Luca Sbisa was also relieved that he could also focus on the playoffs after signing a new deal of his own. Sbisa signed a three-year deal with a yearly cap hit of $3.6 million Wednesday.
“From a personal standpoint, that’s huge,” he said. “(There were) a lot of question marks coming into this year. So it’s good to have the confidence of upper management, the coaches and all that to be here for another three years.”
Sbisa, 25-year-old Swiss product of Italian descent, was acquired from Anaheim at the trade deadline as part of the Ryan Kesler deal. After some early struggles, Sbisa has established himself as a regular. He solidified his spot after helping the defence corps get through a plethora of injuries with a strong run early in 2015.
“Joining a new team, you don’t really know where you fit in and all that, so I think it took me a while to get going,” he said. “The second half of the year, I started to play better. … When those injuries happened on the back end, obviously, that was a bad thing. But at the same time, it was an opportunity for some other guys in the room. I think that’s when I stepped up a bit and started to play better hockey. It’s nice to get rewarded with a contract.”
Benning did not give no-trade clauses to either Dorsett or Sbisa. But they are not going anywhere soon.
The winger was pumped Thursday, a day after signing a new four-year contract with an annual salary cap hit of $2.65 million. The contract is the longest of the 28-year-old Kindersley, Sask., native’s NHL career.
“Me and my agents talked about trying to get a long-term commitment and, obviously, Vancouver made that offer,” he said as the Canucks prepared to face the Arizona Coyotes. “So we’re very happy with it and glad to be staying in Vancouver. That’s for sure.”
His previous three contracts ranged from two to three years.
“It means a lot,” he said of the contract length. “The ownership and management group have been nothing but great to me and my family. It’s a first-class organization, and I couldn’t be happier anywhere else. Being in Canada and being in a Canadian market and, obviously, it being a childhood dream to play in a Canadian market, now I get to do it for four years and work towards the goal that everyone wants to accomplish here – and that’s to win a Stanley Cup.”
Dorsett joined the Canucks in an off-season trade from the New York Rangers and has established a strong affection for the city after his son Dylan was born here. He has become a mainstay on a nominal fourth line with rookie centre Bo Horvat and fellow centre Jannik Hansen.
The line has been prominent down the stretch as the Canucks secured a playoff berth after a one-year absence from the post-season.
Before Thursday’s contest, Dorsett had posted single-season career highs in points (25) and assists (18). He was leading the Canucks in hits (163) and his team-leading 169 penalty minutes ranked fourth in the NHL.
“Coming into a locker-room full of guys that you’ve had some pretty good wars against, it can be a little difficult and nerve-wracking,” he said. “But the guys opened the locker-room with open arms. It just shows what kind of leaders are on this team and the character of guys that are in this locker-room. It’s been a lot of fun this year. And, as soon as I got here, (seeing) how welcoming they are to me and my family, it just made me realize that I wanted to be here long-term.”
Dorsett has earned praise from coach Willie Desjardins and general manager Jim Benning for his physical ways and his willingness to stand up for teammates in altercations. In coming years, Dorsett, who has also played for Columbus, which drafted him from the WHL’s Medicine Hat Tigers, also hopes to become active with charitable causes in Vancouver and be more of a mentor to younger players.
“I still remember the first times I walked into an NHL locker-room star-struck at some of the guys that were walking around,” he said. “When I was in Columbus, you had the likes of Sergei Federov, you had Anson Carter, you had Michael Peca and Freddie Modin, guys like that. Walking around, you see them and you get caught in the moment. I can remember times when those guys made me feel welcome and always had time to chat with me; or if I had any questions, to show the way. So (mentoring) is something I take pride in. I hope I can do that for the next four years to some of the young guys. We’ve got some young talent coming up that will help this team win down the road, and it’ll be a fun role to take on.”
But first, there’s a Stanley Cup to play for this season. Dorsett is glad that he won’t be distracted by contract issues as the Canucks chase a championship.
“It’s an important time of year and it’s obviously a relief to get it over with,” he said.
Meanwhile, defenceman Luca Sbisa was also relieved that he could also focus on the playoffs after signing a new deal of his own. Sbisa signed a three-year deal with a yearly cap hit of $3.6 million Wednesday.
“From a personal standpoint, that’s huge,” he said. “(There were) a lot of question marks coming into this year. So it’s good to have the confidence of upper management, the coaches and all that to be here for another three years.”
Sbisa, 25-year-old Swiss product of Italian descent, was acquired from Anaheim at the trade deadline as part of the Ryan Kesler deal. After some early struggles, Sbisa has established himself as a regular. He solidified his spot after helping the defence corps get through a plethora of injuries with a strong run early in 2015.
“Joining a new team, you don’t really know where you fit in and all that, so I think it took me a while to get going,” he said. “The second half of the year, I started to play better. … When those injuries happened on the back end, obviously, that was a bad thing. But at the same time, it was an opportunity for some other guys in the room. I think that’s when I stepped up a bit and started to play better hockey. It’s nice to get rewarded with a contract.”
Benning did not give no-trade clauses to either Dorsett or Sbisa. But they are not going anywhere soon.
Wednesday, April 8, 2015
Canucks sign Dorsett and Sbisa to new deals
Vancouver Canucks general manager Jim Benning had more than just a playoff berth to celebrate Wednesday.
Benning announced that winger Derek Dorsett and defenceman Luca Sbisa have signed contract extensions. Dorsett, a bruising fourth liner who plays way above his limited size, received a new four-year deal through 2018-19. Sbisa, who has emerged as a top-six rearguard, signed a new three-year contract.
Both are completing their first season with the team following off-season trades from the New York Rangers and Anaheim Ducks, respectively. The new contracts came after the Canucks qualified for the Stanley Cup playoffs Tuesday night as the Los Angeles Kings lost to the Edmonton Oilers.
“We have some good, young players that are going to be on our team here in the next few years, so we want to make sure that we surround them with the right type of people and players,” said Benning. “And, I feel, with the decisions that we’ve made today, we’re going in that direction.”
Dorsett, a 28-year-old Kindersley, Sask., native has posted single-season career highs in points (25) and assists (18). He leads the team in hits (163) and his team-leading 169 penalty minutes rank fourth in the NHL. In 408 career NHL games with the Canucks, Rangers, and Columbus Blue Jackets, he has recorded 98 points (38-60-98) and1,024 penalty minutes. He also has one post-season assist, with the Rangers last season as he helped them reach the Stanley Cup finals.
According to Canucks coach Willie Desjardins, he stands out in many ways. He also stands up for his teammates.
“Everybody knows that when he’s on the ice, your back’s covered,” said Desjardins. “There’s no problems. He’s out there. He’ll always come to your aid, and I think players appreciate that.”
“Derek Dorsett has the heart of a lion,” added Benning. “He plays hard every game. Some games, he doesn’t feel good. … But you get the same effort with him every game. That’s what we’re trying to do around here. We want to be a hard-working team every night, and he brings that to our group.”
Sbisa, 25, has recorded 11 points (3-8-11) and 46 penalty minutes. He ranks second on the team in both hits with 149 and blocked shots with 127.
“In this division, we’re playing against L.A., San Jose, Anaheim – big, heavy teams – and he plays his best games against big, heavy teams,” said Benning. “He’s a guy that can separate forwards from the puck, he has his strength, and he’s young. He’s 25 years old. He has one year of restricted free agency (remaining) and then we bought two years of unrestricted with him. So I feel it’s a good deal – for him and for the team.”
Born in Italy and raised in Switzerland, Sbisa has produced 67 points in 340 career NHL games the Canucks, Ducks, and Philadelphia Flyers, who drafted him 19th overall in 2008.
“He’s continued to improve all year,” said Benning. “He’s physical, he blocks shots, he’s an old throw-back, stay-at-home, physical defenceman. I like the way he plays, and I think he’s an important guy going forward.”
Benning announced that winger Derek Dorsett and defenceman Luca Sbisa have signed contract extensions. Dorsett, a bruising fourth liner who plays way above his limited size, received a new four-year deal through 2018-19. Sbisa, who has emerged as a top-six rearguard, signed a new three-year contract.
Both are completing their first season with the team following off-season trades from the New York Rangers and Anaheim Ducks, respectively. The new contracts came after the Canucks qualified for the Stanley Cup playoffs Tuesday night as the Los Angeles Kings lost to the Edmonton Oilers.
“We have some good, young players that are going to be on our team here in the next few years, so we want to make sure that we surround them with the right type of people and players,” said Benning. “And, I feel, with the decisions that we’ve made today, we’re going in that direction.”
Dorsett, a 28-year-old Kindersley, Sask., native has posted single-season career highs in points (25) and assists (18). He leads the team in hits (163) and his team-leading 169 penalty minutes rank fourth in the NHL. In 408 career NHL games with the Canucks, Rangers, and Columbus Blue Jackets, he has recorded 98 points (38-60-98) and1,024 penalty minutes. He also has one post-season assist, with the Rangers last season as he helped them reach the Stanley Cup finals.
According to Canucks coach Willie Desjardins, he stands out in many ways. He also stands up for his teammates.
“Everybody knows that when he’s on the ice, your back’s covered,” said Desjardins. “There’s no problems. He’s out there. He’ll always come to your aid, and I think players appreciate that.”
“Derek Dorsett has the heart of a lion,” added Benning. “He plays hard every game. Some games, he doesn’t feel good. … But you get the same effort with him every game. That’s what we’re trying to do around here. We want to be a hard-working team every night, and he brings that to our group.”
Sbisa, 25, has recorded 11 points (3-8-11) and 46 penalty minutes. He ranks second on the team in both hits with 149 and blocked shots with 127.
“In this division, we’re playing against L.A., San Jose, Anaheim – big, heavy teams – and he plays his best games against big, heavy teams,” said Benning. “He’s a guy that can separate forwards from the puck, he has his strength, and he’s young. He’s 25 years old. He has one year of restricted free agency (remaining) and then we bought two years of unrestricted with him. So I feel it’s a good deal – for him and for the team.”
Born in Italy and raised in Switzerland, Sbisa has produced 67 points in 340 career NHL games the Canucks, Ducks, and Philadelphia Flyers, who drafted him 19th overall in 2008.
“He’s continued to improve all year,” said Benning. “He’s physical, he blocks shots, he’s an old throw-back, stay-at-home, physical defenceman. I like the way he plays, and I think he’s an important guy going forward.”
Saturday, March 28, 2015
Several Canucks making Masterton nominee pick difficult
The Vancouver Canucks are not making it easy for the local chapter of the Professional Hockey Writers Association to nominate a Bill Masterton Trophy candidate this year.
In past seasons, the Canucks had few legitimate candidates. But this season, it can be argued, they have a number of worthy nominees. Some of the obvious choices include: forwards Alex Burrows, Henrik and Daniel Sedin and defenceman Alex Edler. Rearguard Chris Tanev and goalie Eddie Lack are also in the discussion.
Unfortunately, only one nominee can be selected, causing some angst among voters as Monday’s deadline for the chapter’s final pick draws near.
The Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, named after the late Minnesota North Star who died of an on-ice injury, is an annual award under the trusteeship of the PHWA and is given to the National Hockey League player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey. The winner is selected in a poll of all chapters of the PHWA at the end of the regular season. But first, each chapter nominates a candidate.
Often, injuries or other personal or family healthy woes suffered in the previous season – and ensuing comebacks – factor into the selection process. New York Rangers forward Dominic Moore won the Masterton in 2013-14, when he returned after taking a leave of absence from the NHL in the spring of 2012 to care for his wife, Katie, after she had been diagnosed with a rare form of liver cancer. She passed away at the age of 32 in January of 2013. After resuming his career, Moore played a leading role on a Rangers team that placed second in the Metropolitan Division with 96 points and reached the Stanley Cup finals.
In 2012-13, Minnesota Wild goaltender Josh Harding earned the honours after battling Multiple Sclerosis – although, sadly, he has been out of the NHL all of this season because of effects of the disease and a foot injury suffered in the minors.
Comebacks are likely to influence the voting heavily again this year – and the Canucks have no shortage of players who have bounced back from injury and adversity.
If Vancouver winger Alex Burrows had his way, Henrik and Daniel Sedin would be in the running.
“The twins are always (good candidates) every year,” said Burrows. “They do so much in the community. They’re such great teammates. They show perseverance every year and they don’t miss games. They lead the way for us. I think they’re always good candidates.”
In a unique twist, one voter wanted to make the two Sedins one entry, because it’s hard to differentiate their individual accomplishments from each other. Alas, a two-horse entry is allowed in horseracing – the Sedins’ other favourite sport – but not in the Masterton voting process, so that idea was nixed. Each writer must select three potential nominees – and, even in the case of the Sedins, there are no two-for-one deals.
It says here that Henrik is a slightly better choice than Daniel because the Canucks captain played three fewer games last season while battling injuries much of the season.
“(Henrik) is always up there,” said Burrows. “He leads the way for us on and off the ice. He’s so good on the ice, but people don’t get the chance to see behind the scenes what he does, how he prepares, how he carries the load and shows everybody, the young guys, how to be a true professional. I’m sure he’d be another good candidate.”
But the decision of one Sedin over the other is highly debatable. Heading into Saturday’s game against Dallas, the twins shared the club’s scoring lead with 66 points after they both dealt with injuries last season. Henrik had one more goal (17) while Daniel had one more assist (50).
But Bieksa disputes the notion that Henrik, who saw his career consecutive-game streak end in 2013-14, has had a bounceback season.
“I wouldn’t say that Henrik had a bad season by any stretch last year,” said Bieksa. “His point totals were down, but so were everybody’s. Certainly, this year, him and Danny have stayed healthy, and they lead the charge offensively when they’re going.”
Burrows would be a worthy candidate based on the fact that he has thrived this season after battling injuries and struggling under former coach John Tortorella who, according to multiple reports, wanted the club to buy out his contract. Prior to Saturday’s game, Burrows had 14 goals and 14 assists, and his 28 points were almost double last season’s total of 15. Perhaps more significantly, he has managed to regain his place on the top line with the Sedins – while seeing duty on all four lines at different times of the season. Also, he has been used in all situations and improved his plus-minus mark to one (before Saturday) from minus-nine in 2013-14.
While again battling injury, he has helped the Canucks hold a playoff position for most of the season.
“Burrows has had a really good year,” said Bieksa. “I think he’s been healthy, which has made a big difference. He couldn’t get healthy, couldn’t stay healthy last year, got hurt, broke his foot, so I think that’s a key thing, being able to stay in game shape. Burr’s a heart-and-soul guy, too, so when he’s going, a lot of guys around him are following him. He’s contagious in that way.”
And then there’s Edler. He placed last in the NHL in 2013-14 with a minus-39 mark, despite being limited to 45 games due to a back injury that required surgery. But he had a plus-nine mark before Saturday’s contest and his 23 points exceeded last season’s total of 22. He had also logged an average 24:04 of ice time while helping to ease the strain on an injury-riddled defence corps.
“Edler has had a steady season as well,” said Bieksa. “He’s battled a few injuries at different times, but he’s just been real solid, steady.”
In other words, Edler also makes it difficult to choose a Canucks representative for the Masterton.
But all of the angst might not matter, because there are some obvious candidates elsewhere. Kris Letang of the Pittsburgh Penguins ranks among the league’s top-scoring defencemen after suffering a stroke, while Minnesota goaltender Devan Dubnyk has revived his career. Dubnyk drew his 35th consecutive start for the Wild on Saturday after being traded to the Wild from Arizona early in the season and playing with Edmonton, Nashville and Montreal’s AHL farm team in Hamilton in 2013-14.
“I said right at the start of the year coming into the beginning of the year that I was just really going to enjoy every chance that I got to play again,” said Dubnyk while passing through Vancouver. “Every 60 minutes I just got to play, I was just going to not think past it and just really enjoy that 60 minutes that I got.”
He has enjoyed himself immensely – while not making it easier for writers to identify Masterton nominees elsewhere.
In the end, the Vancouver PHWA chapter’s difficulties will likely be moot, because no Canuck has ever won the award.
And, it appears unlikely that a Canuck will take it home this season.
In past seasons, the Canucks had few legitimate candidates. But this season, it can be argued, they have a number of worthy nominees. Some of the obvious choices include: forwards Alex Burrows, Henrik and Daniel Sedin and defenceman Alex Edler. Rearguard Chris Tanev and goalie Eddie Lack are also in the discussion.
Unfortunately, only one nominee can be selected, causing some angst among voters as Monday’s deadline for the chapter’s final pick draws near.
The Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, named after the late Minnesota North Star who died of an on-ice injury, is an annual award under the trusteeship of the PHWA and is given to the National Hockey League player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey. The winner is selected in a poll of all chapters of the PHWA at the end of the regular season. But first, each chapter nominates a candidate.
Often, injuries or other personal or family healthy woes suffered in the previous season – and ensuing comebacks – factor into the selection process. New York Rangers forward Dominic Moore won the Masterton in 2013-14, when he returned after taking a leave of absence from the NHL in the spring of 2012 to care for his wife, Katie, after she had been diagnosed with a rare form of liver cancer. She passed away at the age of 32 in January of 2013. After resuming his career, Moore played a leading role on a Rangers team that placed second in the Metropolitan Division with 96 points and reached the Stanley Cup finals.
In 2012-13, Minnesota Wild goaltender Josh Harding earned the honours after battling Multiple Sclerosis – although, sadly, he has been out of the NHL all of this season because of effects of the disease and a foot injury suffered in the minors.
Comebacks are likely to influence the voting heavily again this year – and the Canucks have no shortage of players who have bounced back from injury and adversity.
If Vancouver winger Alex Burrows had his way, Henrik and Daniel Sedin would be in the running.
“The twins are always (good candidates) every year,” said Burrows. “They do so much in the community. They’re such great teammates. They show perseverance every year and they don’t miss games. They lead the way for us. I think they’re always good candidates.”
In a unique twist, one voter wanted to make the two Sedins one entry, because it’s hard to differentiate their individual accomplishments from each other. Alas, a two-horse entry is allowed in horseracing – the Sedins’ other favourite sport – but not in the Masterton voting process, so that idea was nixed. Each writer must select three potential nominees – and, even in the case of the Sedins, there are no two-for-one deals.
It says here that Henrik is a slightly better choice than Daniel because the Canucks captain played three fewer games last season while battling injuries much of the season.
“(Henrik) is always up there,” said Burrows. “He leads the way for us on and off the ice. He’s so good on the ice, but people don’t get the chance to see behind the scenes what he does, how he prepares, how he carries the load and shows everybody, the young guys, how to be a true professional. I’m sure he’d be another good candidate.”
But the decision of one Sedin over the other is highly debatable. Heading into Saturday’s game against Dallas, the twins shared the club’s scoring lead with 66 points after they both dealt with injuries last season. Henrik had one more goal (17) while Daniel had one more assist (50).
But Bieksa disputes the notion that Henrik, who saw his career consecutive-game streak end in 2013-14, has had a bounceback season.
“I wouldn’t say that Henrik had a bad season by any stretch last year,” said Bieksa. “His point totals were down, but so were everybody’s. Certainly, this year, him and Danny have stayed healthy, and they lead the charge offensively when they’re going.”
Burrows would be a worthy candidate based on the fact that he has thrived this season after battling injuries and struggling under former coach John Tortorella who, according to multiple reports, wanted the club to buy out his contract. Prior to Saturday’s game, Burrows had 14 goals and 14 assists, and his 28 points were almost double last season’s total of 15. Perhaps more significantly, he has managed to regain his place on the top line with the Sedins – while seeing duty on all four lines at different times of the season. Also, he has been used in all situations and improved his plus-minus mark to one (before Saturday) from minus-nine in 2013-14.
While again battling injury, he has helped the Canucks hold a playoff position for most of the season.
“Burrows has had a really good year,” said Bieksa. “I think he’s been healthy, which has made a big difference. He couldn’t get healthy, couldn’t stay healthy last year, got hurt, broke his foot, so I think that’s a key thing, being able to stay in game shape. Burr’s a heart-and-soul guy, too, so when he’s going, a lot of guys around him are following him. He’s contagious in that way.”
And then there’s Edler. He placed last in the NHL in 2013-14 with a minus-39 mark, despite being limited to 45 games due to a back injury that required surgery. But he had a plus-nine mark before Saturday’s contest and his 23 points exceeded last season’s total of 22. He had also logged an average 24:04 of ice time while helping to ease the strain on an injury-riddled defence corps.
“Edler has had a steady season as well,” said Bieksa. “He’s battled a few injuries at different times, but he’s just been real solid, steady.”
In other words, Edler also makes it difficult to choose a Canucks representative for the Masterton.
But all of the angst might not matter, because there are some obvious candidates elsewhere. Kris Letang of the Pittsburgh Penguins ranks among the league’s top-scoring defencemen after suffering a stroke, while Minnesota goaltender Devan Dubnyk has revived his career. Dubnyk drew his 35th consecutive start for the Wild on Saturday after being traded to the Wild from Arizona early in the season and playing with Edmonton, Nashville and Montreal’s AHL farm team in Hamilton in 2013-14.
“I said right at the start of the year coming into the beginning of the year that I was just really going to enjoy every chance that I got to play again,” said Dubnyk while passing through Vancouver. “Every 60 minutes I just got to play, I was just going to not think past it and just really enjoy that 60 minutes that I got.”
He has enjoyed himself immensely – while not making it easier for writers to identify Masterton nominees elsewhere.
In the end, the Vancouver PHWA chapter’s difficulties will likely be moot, because no Canuck has ever won the award.
And, it appears unlikely that a Canuck will take it home this season.
Thursday, March 19, 2015
Kevin Bieksa welcomes NHL's three-on-three overtime plan
Kevin Bieksa peered into his crystal ball Thursday and liked what he saw.
The Vancouver Canucks defenceman has a vision of how things will develop if the NHL adopts three-on-three overtime next season.
“I think it’ll be the two-on-one fest,” said Bieksa.
General managers recommended this week, during meetings in Florida, that the league adopt three-on-three overtime in 2015-16. The plan comes as a result of concerns about the number of shootouts that determine wins and losses.
Bieksa said three-on-three O.T. could lead to many new tactics on the ice.
“It’ll be interesting to see how the strategies develop three-on-three, whether: If you’re the home team and you get last (line) change and the other team puts three forwards on, maybe, you put your three defencemen on against them and then you come back with your three top forwards," he said. "Who knows? There could be a lot of strategies developed."
The GMs' recommendation must still be approved by the competition committee, which includes representatives from the NHL Players Association. There is no guarantee of that happening; however, Bieksa is one player who likes the idea.
“It’ll add to the game," he said. "I think it’ll be more exciting. I think the shootout was brought in not only to decide games, but to bring some excitement to the game, much like a soccer game at the end. I think this will have the same effect."
Some fans who like the shootout might argue that three-on-three overtime won't generate the same moves as the one that Calgary defenceman David Schlemko as he scored the winning goal, in the eight round of the shootout, against the Boston Bruins earlier this month. The inside-out move was reminiscent of the one that Peter Forsberg made on Corey Hirsch as Sweden beat Canada in the 1994 Olympic gold-medal game.
But Bieksa said the shootout has "plateaued" and fallen out of favour.
"It’s a good way to decide the outcome, but a lot of people aren’t the biggest fans of it," he said. "The three-one-three will be another way to decide the game, and it’ll be the new thing – and I think it’ll be entertaining.”
The Vancouver Canucks defenceman has a vision of how things will develop if the NHL adopts three-on-three overtime next season.
“I think it’ll be the two-on-one fest,” said Bieksa.
General managers recommended this week, during meetings in Florida, that the league adopt three-on-three overtime in 2015-16. The plan comes as a result of concerns about the number of shootouts that determine wins and losses.
Bieksa said three-on-three O.T. could lead to many new tactics on the ice.
“It’ll be interesting to see how the strategies develop three-on-three, whether: If you’re the home team and you get last (line) change and the other team puts three forwards on, maybe, you put your three defencemen on against them and then you come back with your three top forwards," he said. "Who knows? There could be a lot of strategies developed."
The GMs' recommendation must still be approved by the competition committee, which includes representatives from the NHL Players Association. There is no guarantee of that happening; however, Bieksa is one player who likes the idea.
“It’ll add to the game," he said. "I think it’ll be more exciting. I think the shootout was brought in not only to decide games, but to bring some excitement to the game, much like a soccer game at the end. I think this will have the same effect."
Some fans who like the shootout might argue that three-on-three overtime won't generate the same moves as the one that Calgary defenceman David Schlemko as he scored the winning goal, in the eight round of the shootout, against the Boston Bruins earlier this month. The inside-out move was reminiscent of the one that Peter Forsberg made on Corey Hirsch as Sweden beat Canada in the 1994 Olympic gold-medal game.
But Bieksa said the shootout has "plateaued" and fallen out of favour.
"It’s a good way to decide the outcome, but a lot of people aren’t the biggest fans of it," he said. "The three-one-three will be another way to decide the game, and it’ll be the new thing – and I think it’ll be entertaining.”
Thursday, March 12, 2015
Eddie Lack welcomes heavy workload
Eddie Lack has a chance to set some new benchmarks this season – and they won’t be pant scuffs which come from sitting as a Vancouver Canucks backup goaltender.
Contrary to early-season expectations, Lack could surpass – and will definitely approach – the 41 games played total that he reached last season as a rookie following Roberto Luongo’s trade to Florida. Lack, who has been excelling lately, could also produce new career bests in goals-against average and save percentage.
He made his 10th consecutive appearance as Vancouver hosted the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday night in a game that had plenty of playoff implications. As far as Lack’s activity level goes, it’s more of the same as the second half of 2013-14 as he fills in for injured starter Ryan Miller. Lack has played in 28 games, including Thursday’s affair, and Vancouver has 15 regular-season games remaining following that contest. But, this season is dramatically different, with the Canucks showing the ability to compete most nights – at least when they’re not slacking off against playoff also-rans like Buffalo and Arizona – and Lack’s enjoyment level is considerably higher than it was a year ago.
“It was still fun last year when I played a lot,” he said. “Obviously, it’s way more fun when you win, and it’s a way better atmosphere in the locker-room when you get the results you want. So, obviously, it’s a lot more fun this year.”
Vancouver coach Willie Desjardins told reporters that Miller, who suffered a knee injury Feb. 22 against the New York Islanders, is still at least two or three weeks away from returning to the lineup. Minor-league call-up Jacob Markstrom struggled in his lone start, March 3, as he allowed three goals on four shots before he was pulled in a loss to San Jose.
Barring a drastic turn of events, Lack will start all but a few games until Miller comes back, presuming he does. But Lack, 27, feels ready for the high workload, which will rarely allow for more than one day of rest between games. Last season showed him how he needed to prepare physically for the upcoming grind.
“I feel like I took care of myself last year, too,” he said. “It’s just a matter of getting energy back and getting everything feeling loose and stuff like that after the game. So it’s not really a day off. It’s more a recovery day, if you know what I mean.”
Last season’s ordeal, when he was battling a back injury but still playing as the Canucks tried to turn a disaster into a respectable finish before missing the playoffs, also prepared him mentally for the difficult task ahead.
“Win or lose, you still have to come to the rink the next day and be the same old Eddie and not be too sad about the day before or too happy,” he said. “I feel that I’m good at putting myself down when I have to and bringing myself up when I have to.”
Although the Canucks have held on to a playoff position for most of the season, there is still no guarantee they will qualify for the post-season as the Kings and Calgary Flames apply considerable pressure.
Time will tell whether Lack can back up his words with action, but there’s no doubt that he will get the opportunity to prove himself often. Miller has been seen limping at Rogers Arena lately, and he faces a severe battle to get back within three weeks. There is about a month to go before the end of the regular season.
So Lack might wind up being the post-season starter – if he can help the Canucks qualify.
Contrary to early-season expectations, Lack could surpass – and will definitely approach – the 41 games played total that he reached last season as a rookie following Roberto Luongo’s trade to Florida. Lack, who has been excelling lately, could also produce new career bests in goals-against average and save percentage.
He made his 10th consecutive appearance as Vancouver hosted the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday night in a game that had plenty of playoff implications. As far as Lack’s activity level goes, it’s more of the same as the second half of 2013-14 as he fills in for injured starter Ryan Miller. Lack has played in 28 games, including Thursday’s affair, and Vancouver has 15 regular-season games remaining following that contest. But, this season is dramatically different, with the Canucks showing the ability to compete most nights – at least when they’re not slacking off against playoff also-rans like Buffalo and Arizona – and Lack’s enjoyment level is considerably higher than it was a year ago.
“It was still fun last year when I played a lot,” he said. “Obviously, it’s way more fun when you win, and it’s a way better atmosphere in the locker-room when you get the results you want. So, obviously, it’s a lot more fun this year.”
Vancouver coach Willie Desjardins told reporters that Miller, who suffered a knee injury Feb. 22 against the New York Islanders, is still at least two or three weeks away from returning to the lineup. Minor-league call-up Jacob Markstrom struggled in his lone start, March 3, as he allowed three goals on four shots before he was pulled in a loss to San Jose.
Barring a drastic turn of events, Lack will start all but a few games until Miller comes back, presuming he does. But Lack, 27, feels ready for the high workload, which will rarely allow for more than one day of rest between games. Last season showed him how he needed to prepare physically for the upcoming grind.
“I feel like I took care of myself last year, too,” he said. “It’s just a matter of getting energy back and getting everything feeling loose and stuff like that after the game. So it’s not really a day off. It’s more a recovery day, if you know what I mean.”
Last season’s ordeal, when he was battling a back injury but still playing as the Canucks tried to turn a disaster into a respectable finish before missing the playoffs, also prepared him mentally for the difficult task ahead.
“Win or lose, you still have to come to the rink the next day and be the same old Eddie and not be too sad about the day before or too happy,” he said. “I feel that I’m good at putting myself down when I have to and bringing myself up when I have to.”
Although the Canucks have held on to a playoff position for most of the season, there is still no guarantee they will qualify for the post-season as the Kings and Calgary Flames apply considerable pressure.
Time will tell whether Lack can back up his words with action, but there’s no doubt that he will get the opportunity to prove himself often. Miller has been seen limping at Rogers Arena lately, and he faces a severe battle to get back within three weeks. There is about a month to go before the end of the regular season.
So Lack might wind up being the post-season starter – if he can help the Canucks qualify.
Friday, February 13, 2015
Bruins-Canucks rivalry lingers four years later
Circa 2011, games between the Vancouver Canucks and Boston Bruins generated considerable buzz, along with plenty of venom. Now? Not so much.
But it was evident Friday that some of rivalry that reached a feverish height in the 2011 Stanley Cup final, when Boston overcame a 3-1 series deficit to win in seven games, is still there.
“Maybe a little bit,” said Canucks winger Alex Burrows before Vancouver hosted the Bruins. “I would have liked to win four years ago. But they’re a much different team and we’re a much different team now. So, personally, maybe a little bit. But now, we’ve moved on from that.”
Burrows was at the centre of many brouhahas with the Bruins, notably with Patrice Bergeron in a finger-biting incident. But, in a sign, perhaps, of lingering animosity, Burrows has not chatted amicably with Bergeron or anyone else about the memorable 2011 finals.
“Honestly, I don’t know where I could have (talked to) most of them,” said Burrows. “I know, maybe, (Patrice) Bergeron. But he’s from Quebec City. I’m from Montreal. That’s a four-hour drive. So it’s not like I see them or have any friends on the team, really. I’ve never really gone out of my way to talk about (the 2011 final loss) or anything. But I’ve been to Fenway Park and I’ve watched the Red Sox. That’s probably as close as I’ve gotten to Boston ever since then.”
Canucks captain Henrik Sedin said Boston is still “a team that brings out the best in us,” but the rivalry is not even close to what it used to be.
“When you play against them in the finals, the heat is going to be there,” he said. “But they have a lot of new faces, and we don’t have too many guys left from that year. So it’s different – for sure.”
The lack of games between the teams – only two per season – also prevents things from heating up.
“Yeah, a little bit,” he said. “The only game where the same kind of rivalry has been there was the year after when we played them in Boston.”
Former general manager Mike Gillis believed that his club was never the same after that highly physical and emotional affair. But some Vancouver players, such as Zack Kassian, who was not with the team then, believe that the final loss “still stings.”
Times are much different now, because both the Canucks and Bruins are battling for playoff berths instead of vying for first overall in the NHL like they once did. But Bruins winger Milan Lucic, a Vancouver native, believes there always will be a strong rivalry between the clubs.
“That’s what makes these games so exciting,” he said.
But he also believes the fight for two points is what counts the most now.
“I think that whole revenge thing is out the window as far as the final goes,” said Lucic.
Bruins captain Zdeno Chara also believes the rivalry is much different. He noted that both clubs have changed many players and the Canucks “changed their whole management and coaching staff.”
But Chara thinks the rivalry would “probably” be more intense if the Bruins and Canucks faced each other more often.
“That’s what happens when you play teams more often,” he said. “Different things might cause more more emotional games (to) come out of that, but the schedule is set before the season and, usually, you only play some teams once or twice.”
Bruins coach Claude Julien has been known to stoke the fires between the teams. But the Bruins and Canucks have some ties now following former Boston executive Jim Benning’s appointment as Canucks GM last summer. So Julien actually had some nice things to say about a member of Canucks management.
“Jim is a good man,” said Julien. “He’s a good hockey man. He’s a good person. Great hockey knowledge. Very calm. Sees deficiencies. Sees also assets. I’ve had good talks with Jim. When he was in Boston, we chatted about our team and other players and stuff like that. In my mind, it was too bad that we lost a good man, but I think Vancouver made a really good decision. To be very honest in my comment, I think they got themselves a good man who’s gonna make this team a good team if you give him some time.”
Julien has also been known to say good things about former Canucks coach Alain Vigneault, an old friends. Of course, new Canucks coach Willie Desjardins wasn’t with the club in 2011. But Dejardins, who has won championships at every level, believes that a Boston-Vancouver game will always be emotional for Canuck players who were with the team in 2011.
“I don’t see how it couldn’t be,” said Dejardins. “That’s something you never forget, the guys that were here, the run, that series.
“I think it’ll always mean something to play against Boston.”
But it was evident Friday that some of rivalry that reached a feverish height in the 2011 Stanley Cup final, when Boston overcame a 3-1 series deficit to win in seven games, is still there.
“Maybe a little bit,” said Canucks winger Alex Burrows before Vancouver hosted the Bruins. “I would have liked to win four years ago. But they’re a much different team and we’re a much different team now. So, personally, maybe a little bit. But now, we’ve moved on from that.”
Burrows was at the centre of many brouhahas with the Bruins, notably with Patrice Bergeron in a finger-biting incident. But, in a sign, perhaps, of lingering animosity, Burrows has not chatted amicably with Bergeron or anyone else about the memorable 2011 finals.
“Honestly, I don’t know where I could have (talked to) most of them,” said Burrows. “I know, maybe, (Patrice) Bergeron. But he’s from Quebec City. I’m from Montreal. That’s a four-hour drive. So it’s not like I see them or have any friends on the team, really. I’ve never really gone out of my way to talk about (the 2011 final loss) or anything. But I’ve been to Fenway Park and I’ve watched the Red Sox. That’s probably as close as I’ve gotten to Boston ever since then.”
Canucks captain Henrik Sedin said Boston is still “a team that brings out the best in us,” but the rivalry is not even close to what it used to be.
“When you play against them in the finals, the heat is going to be there,” he said. “But they have a lot of new faces, and we don’t have too many guys left from that year. So it’s different – for sure.”
The lack of games between the teams – only two per season – also prevents things from heating up.
“Yeah, a little bit,” he said. “The only game where the same kind of rivalry has been there was the year after when we played them in Boston.”
Former general manager Mike Gillis believed that his club was never the same after that highly physical and emotional affair. But some Vancouver players, such as Zack Kassian, who was not with the team then, believe that the final loss “still stings.”
Times are much different now, because both the Canucks and Bruins are battling for playoff berths instead of vying for first overall in the NHL like they once did. But Bruins winger Milan Lucic, a Vancouver native, believes there always will be a strong rivalry between the clubs.
“That’s what makes these games so exciting,” he said.
But he also believes the fight for two points is what counts the most now.
“I think that whole revenge thing is out the window as far as the final goes,” said Lucic.
Bruins captain Zdeno Chara also believes the rivalry is much different. He noted that both clubs have changed many players and the Canucks “changed their whole management and coaching staff.”
But Chara thinks the rivalry would “probably” be more intense if the Bruins and Canucks faced each other more often.
“That’s what happens when you play teams more often,” he said. “Different things might cause more more emotional games (to) come out of that, but the schedule is set before the season and, usually, you only play some teams once or twice.”
Bruins coach Claude Julien has been known to stoke the fires between the teams. But the Bruins and Canucks have some ties now following former Boston executive Jim Benning’s appointment as Canucks GM last summer. So Julien actually had some nice things to say about a member of Canucks management.
“Jim is a good man,” said Julien. “He’s a good hockey man. He’s a good person. Great hockey knowledge. Very calm. Sees deficiencies. Sees also assets. I’ve had good talks with Jim. When he was in Boston, we chatted about our team and other players and stuff like that. In my mind, it was too bad that we lost a good man, but I think Vancouver made a really good decision. To be very honest in my comment, I think they got themselves a good man who’s gonna make this team a good team if you give him some time.”
Julien has also been known to say good things about former Canucks coach Alain Vigneault, an old friends. Of course, new Canucks coach Willie Desjardins wasn’t with the club in 2011. But Dejardins, who has won championships at every level, believes that a Boston-Vancouver game will always be emotional for Canuck players who were with the team in 2011.
“I don’t see how it couldn’t be,” said Dejardins. “That’s something you never forget, the guys that were here, the run, that series.
“I think it’ll always mean something to play against Boston.”
Sunday, September 18, 2011
How times have changed for Owen Nolan
Notes and quotes from the Vancouver Canucks training camp on Sunday …
Nolan undergoes role reversal at Canucks camp
How times have changed for Owen Nolan.
In 1990, he was selected first overall in the NHL draft and received the red-carpet treatment the way Edmonton No. 1 picks Taylor Hall and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins have the past two years. But at the age of 39, Nolan now finds himself without a contract as he tries out for the Canucks.
He used to be able to count on big minutes in a top-line role. But after spending a season in Switzerland, his role, along with his contract status is uncertain.
“My goal right now is just to make the team, and once I do, we’ll discuss what role the coach wants me to have,” says Nolan. “I have a lot of experience under my belt and can handle a lot of different situations, whether it’s kill penalties, play power plays. Whatever they need me to do, I’m more than willing to do.”
If Nolan can play the way he has in the past, before injuries and age took their toll, he will likely make an impact with the Canucks. As the Stanley Cup finals showed, Vancouver needs more grit, especially on the third and fourth lines, where Nolan is most likely to play.
“Especially not playing (in the NHL) last year, I have no excuses for bumps and bruises,” says Nolan. “I feel fit. I feel ready to get at it.”
Nolan, who last played in the NHL two seasons ago with Minnesota, says he has to rely more on his intelligence now than his physical skills.
“Everyone knows you lose a step the older you get, but I think at some point you learn to read the game a lot better,” says Nolan. “You see those situations a lot more and you know how to react to them.”
Canucks captain Henrik Sedin says Nolan has reacted well to the rigors of training camp. Now, it’s just a question of seeing what he can do in exhibition play, which begins Tuesday in a pair of split-squad games against Calgary at home and away.
Nolan is among a handful of veterans who are trying out. Goaltender Manny Legace, enforcer Todd Fedoruk and journeyman Steve Begin are the others.
“It’s a tough spot to be in, but they’re coming in, they’re working hard,” says Sedin. “They’ve been around so they know what it takes. I’m sure they want to prove, when the game starts, what they can do.”
“I think different guys can bring different things, but the one thing they can all bring is experience. “They’ve been around and they’ve played this game for a long time, so I think that’s their nature.”
It’s often said that when you try out for one team, you’re actually trying out for 29 other teams that scout you in the preseason. But Nolan does not pay heed to such comments.
“I just want to be part of a winner,” says Nolan. “I’m not expecting to come in here and play 20 minutes. I know that my job is to come in here and chip in any way I can when I’m on the ice.”
Undrafted Archibald fills into pro frame
Add Darren Archibald to the list of players that Vancouver general manager Mike Gillis has granted a second chance to make a first impression.
In Archibald’s case, it’s a third chance. Unlike the aforementioned Nolan, the 21-year-old rookie was never drafted and had unsuccessful tryouts with Columbus and Detroit in the past two training camps. But Gillis saw something in Archibald and signed him last December while he was completing his last season of junior eligibility with Niagara and Barrie of the OHL.
“I think it has a lot to do with what team you go to and how much availability there is for a contract,” says Archibald, who was one of Vancouver’s better players at the recently concluded Young Stars tournament in Penticton, B.C. “It’s such a numbers game and sometimes it just doesn’t work with certain teams. Certain teams already have their style of player and, fortunately, for me, Vancouver was looking for their big guys to get in the hard-nosed areas.”
So why wasn’t Archibald drafted? At six-foot-three and 209 pounds bears the classic build of a power forward.
“Everybody’s kind of labelled me as a late bloomer,” says Archibald. “Within the last couple of years, I guess, I’ve just really started to fill out into my frame. I was always tall, but I was never really thick. In the last couple of years, I’ve started to put on a balance and started to feel more comfortable with my body.”
Soon, he will try to get comfortable in the Chicago Wolves lineup. But he will be one to watch as the Canucks look for more grit and toughness to avoid being bounced around in the playoffs.
Tanev sporting new Chinese-friendly number
Don’t be surprised if second-year Vancouver defenceman Chris Tanev becomes a favourite of the club’s large Chinese fan base.
Tanev will sport No. 8 on his jersey this season instead of his former No. 18. According to Chinese numerology and folklore, the No. 8 is considered the number that brings the most good fortune.
“Really?” says Tanev.
He was unaware of the benefit of his new number. But perhaps Gillis knew something he didn’t.
“I didn’t ask for it to be changed,” says Tanev. “That’s the number I wore in college. Mr. Gillis told the trainers to change it from 18 to eight, and I’m happy with that. That’s what I wore growing up. I prefer that.”
Perhaps the No. 8 will help Tanev, who was also undrafted before being spotted while playing for little-known Rochester Institute of Technology two seasons ago, put more bulk on his slim frame. Unlike Archibald, Tanev does not fit the hockey prototype. Sporting shorts and a tee-shirt, he looks like he would fit in well with the Vancouver Whitecaps soccer club.
He has bulked up a bit, gaining about 10 pounds.
“I’m still working on my strength,” says Tanev. “I’m still working on my shot. Things are coming. They’re a lot better than last year.”
Veteran Keith Ballard figures the extra weight will help Tanev, who is extremely strong when it comes to getting the puck out of his zone, but not strength-wise. Ballard believes the added pounds will help him win some one-on-one battles in the corner and elsewhere.
“He’s not an overly physical player, so he’s not going to use that strength to be running guys every night,” says Ballard.
Eddie doesn’t lack foresight
Eddie Lack, who appears destined to be Vancouver’s top goaltender on the farm this season, is watching and learning from incumbents Roberto Luongo and Cory Schneider in training camp.
“I watched them in practice and I learned a lot,” says Lack. “I just know, if I continue to develop, my time will come.”
He recognizes that Luongo still has a decade to go on his long-term contract and Schneider is here until his inevitable trade. Possibly this season. Why else would the Canucks bring in Legace for a look-see? So Lack, a native of Norrtalje, Sweden, is staying patient and following the example of the goaltender who did in the Canucks in the Stanley Cup finals – Tim Thomas – en route to being selected as the Conn Smythe Trophy winner.
“I’m just 23 years old and I’m a goalie,” says Lack. “Just look at Tim Thomas. I think he played four or five games in the NHL before he turned 30. So (I’m go to) just be patient and play my game and have fun out there.”
“I’m just trying to take care of my business,” says Lack. “It’s not something that I can control or anything. I have to play good to eventually get a shot up here, and that’s what my plan is.”
“I’m just 23 years old and I’m a goalie,” says Lack. “Just look at Tim Thomas. I think he played four or five games in the NHL before he turned 30. So (I’m go to) just be patient and play my game and have fun out there.”
Sedins like short off-season
The Sedin twins aren’t getting older, they’re getting fitter.
Despite a longer season in 2010-11, the Sedins scored better in some aspects of physical testing at camp. Henrik won’t say exactly which ones, but he admitted the gruelling VO2 exam, which measure oxygen intake during a high-intensity stationary bike ride, was one of them.
“I feel better this year,” says Sedin. “You play longer and you stay in shape and ou don’t really get those weeks where you’re not doing anything. Nowadays, if you get three or four weeks off, it’s a long time to recover from.”
He endorses tennis star Roger Federer’s claim that 40 is the new 30. Obviously, 30, which is the twins’ age until Sept. 26, ain’t what it used to be, either.
“Guys would start to tail off before, but now I think you’re going to see more guys playing longer, because you work out differently in the summer time,” says Henrik. “You get back, you’re never really out of shape, you’re always trying to stay in shape, and that makes things easy.”
But the Sedins, who led the league in scoring the past two seasons, with Henrik prevailing in 2009-10 and Daniel earning top honours last season, made sure they didn’t take it easy in the gym between June and August.
“We had a really good summer,” says Henrik Sedin. “We really tried to push ourselves. Maybe, when you get up to this age, you try to be just where you are and you don’t really try to push yourself. In the summer, we pushed ourselves to try to get in better shape. We’re happy with the results.”
If the past two seasons are any indication, Canucks fans likely will be, too.
Ballard anxious to start season
Still on the feeling-comfortable theme, defenceman Ballard is feeling much better than he did a year ago, when he was recovering from hip surgery and getting to know his teammates following a trade from Florida.
Now, Ballard, who was a frequent healthy scratch in the playoffs and at other times last season, is anxious to start the preseason. He is glad that training camps not the drawn-out affairs that they used to be. Vancouver’s camp will comprise just three days on ice – and Ballard likes it that way.
“You don’t need to be beating up on your own teammates,” says Ballard. “So you want to get out there and compete against some of the other guys.”
Nolan undergoes role reversal at Canucks camp
How times have changed for Owen Nolan.
In 1990, he was selected first overall in the NHL draft and received the red-carpet treatment the way Edmonton No. 1 picks Taylor Hall and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins have the past two years. But at the age of 39, Nolan now finds himself without a contract as he tries out for the Canucks.
He used to be able to count on big minutes in a top-line role. But after spending a season in Switzerland, his role, along with his contract status is uncertain.
“My goal right now is just to make the team, and once I do, we’ll discuss what role the coach wants me to have,” says Nolan. “I have a lot of experience under my belt and can handle a lot of different situations, whether it’s kill penalties, play power plays. Whatever they need me to do, I’m more than willing to do.”
If Nolan can play the way he has in the past, before injuries and age took their toll, he will likely make an impact with the Canucks. As the Stanley Cup finals showed, Vancouver needs more grit, especially on the third and fourth lines, where Nolan is most likely to play.
“Especially not playing (in the NHL) last year, I have no excuses for bumps and bruises,” says Nolan. “I feel fit. I feel ready to get at it.”
Nolan, who last played in the NHL two seasons ago with Minnesota, says he has to rely more on his intelligence now than his physical skills.
“Everyone knows you lose a step the older you get, but I think at some point you learn to read the game a lot better,” says Nolan. “You see those situations a lot more and you know how to react to them.”
Canucks captain Henrik Sedin says Nolan has reacted well to the rigors of training camp. Now, it’s just a question of seeing what he can do in exhibition play, which begins Tuesday in a pair of split-squad games against Calgary at home and away.
Nolan is among a handful of veterans who are trying out. Goaltender Manny Legace, enforcer Todd Fedoruk and journeyman Steve Begin are the others.
“It’s a tough spot to be in, but they’re coming in, they’re working hard,” says Sedin. “They’ve been around so they know what it takes. I’m sure they want to prove, when the game starts, what they can do.”
“I think different guys can bring different things, but the one thing they can all bring is experience. “They’ve been around and they’ve played this game for a long time, so I think that’s their nature.”
It’s often said that when you try out for one team, you’re actually trying out for 29 other teams that scout you in the preseason. But Nolan does not pay heed to such comments.
“I just want to be part of a winner,” says Nolan. “I’m not expecting to come in here and play 20 minutes. I know that my job is to come in here and chip in any way I can when I’m on the ice.”
Undrafted Archibald fills into pro frame
Add Darren Archibald to the list of players that Vancouver general manager Mike Gillis has granted a second chance to make a first impression.
In Archibald’s case, it’s a third chance. Unlike the aforementioned Nolan, the 21-year-old rookie was never drafted and had unsuccessful tryouts with Columbus and Detroit in the past two training camps. But Gillis saw something in Archibald and signed him last December while he was completing his last season of junior eligibility with Niagara and Barrie of the OHL.
“I think it has a lot to do with what team you go to and how much availability there is for a contract,” says Archibald, who was one of Vancouver’s better players at the recently concluded Young Stars tournament in Penticton, B.C. “It’s such a numbers game and sometimes it just doesn’t work with certain teams. Certain teams already have their style of player and, fortunately, for me, Vancouver was looking for their big guys to get in the hard-nosed areas.”
So why wasn’t Archibald drafted? At six-foot-three and 209 pounds bears the classic build of a power forward.
“Everybody’s kind of labelled me as a late bloomer,” says Archibald. “Within the last couple of years, I guess, I’ve just really started to fill out into my frame. I was always tall, but I was never really thick. In the last couple of years, I’ve started to put on a balance and started to feel more comfortable with my body.”
Soon, he will try to get comfortable in the Chicago Wolves lineup. But he will be one to watch as the Canucks look for more grit and toughness to avoid being bounced around in the playoffs.
Tanev sporting new Chinese-friendly number
Don’t be surprised if second-year Vancouver defenceman Chris Tanev becomes a favourite of the club’s large Chinese fan base.
Tanev will sport No. 8 on his jersey this season instead of his former No. 18. According to Chinese numerology and folklore, the No. 8 is considered the number that brings the most good fortune.
“Really?” says Tanev.
He was unaware of the benefit of his new number. But perhaps Gillis knew something he didn’t.
“I didn’t ask for it to be changed,” says Tanev. “That’s the number I wore in college. Mr. Gillis told the trainers to change it from 18 to eight, and I’m happy with that. That’s what I wore growing up. I prefer that.”
Perhaps the No. 8 will help Tanev, who was also undrafted before being spotted while playing for little-known Rochester Institute of Technology two seasons ago, put more bulk on his slim frame. Unlike Archibald, Tanev does not fit the hockey prototype. Sporting shorts and a tee-shirt, he looks like he would fit in well with the Vancouver Whitecaps soccer club.
He has bulked up a bit, gaining about 10 pounds.
“I’m still working on my strength,” says Tanev. “I’m still working on my shot. Things are coming. They’re a lot better than last year.”
Veteran Keith Ballard figures the extra weight will help Tanev, who is extremely strong when it comes to getting the puck out of his zone, but not strength-wise. Ballard believes the added pounds will help him win some one-on-one battles in the corner and elsewhere.
“He’s not an overly physical player, so he’s not going to use that strength to be running guys every night,” says Ballard.
Eddie doesn’t lack foresight
Eddie Lack, who appears destined to be Vancouver’s top goaltender on the farm this season, is watching and learning from incumbents Roberto Luongo and Cory Schneider in training camp.
“I watched them in practice and I learned a lot,” says Lack. “I just know, if I continue to develop, my time will come.”
He recognizes that Luongo still has a decade to go on his long-term contract and Schneider is here until his inevitable trade. Possibly this season. Why else would the Canucks bring in Legace for a look-see? So Lack, a native of Norrtalje, Sweden, is staying patient and following the example of the goaltender who did in the Canucks in the Stanley Cup finals – Tim Thomas – en route to being selected as the Conn Smythe Trophy winner.
“I’m just 23 years old and I’m a goalie,” says Lack. “Just look at Tim Thomas. I think he played four or five games in the NHL before he turned 30. So (I’m go to) just be patient and play my game and have fun out there.”
“I’m just trying to take care of my business,” says Lack. “It’s not something that I can control or anything. I have to play good to eventually get a shot up here, and that’s what my plan is.”
“I’m just 23 years old and I’m a goalie,” says Lack. “Just look at Tim Thomas. I think he played four or five games in the NHL before he turned 30. So (I’m go to) just be patient and play my game and have fun out there.”
Sedins like short off-season
The Sedin twins aren’t getting older, they’re getting fitter.
Despite a longer season in 2010-11, the Sedins scored better in some aspects of physical testing at camp. Henrik won’t say exactly which ones, but he admitted the gruelling VO2 exam, which measure oxygen intake during a high-intensity stationary bike ride, was one of them.
“I feel better this year,” says Sedin. “You play longer and you stay in shape and ou don’t really get those weeks where you’re not doing anything. Nowadays, if you get three or four weeks off, it’s a long time to recover from.”
He endorses tennis star Roger Federer’s claim that 40 is the new 30. Obviously, 30, which is the twins’ age until Sept. 26, ain’t what it used to be, either.
“Guys would start to tail off before, but now I think you’re going to see more guys playing longer, because you work out differently in the summer time,” says Henrik. “You get back, you’re never really out of shape, you’re always trying to stay in shape, and that makes things easy.”
But the Sedins, who led the league in scoring the past two seasons, with Henrik prevailing in 2009-10 and Daniel earning top honours last season, made sure they didn’t take it easy in the gym between June and August.
“We had a really good summer,” says Henrik Sedin. “We really tried to push ourselves. Maybe, when you get up to this age, you try to be just where you are and you don’t really try to push yourself. In the summer, we pushed ourselves to try to get in better shape. We’re happy with the results.”
If the past two seasons are any indication, Canucks fans likely will be, too.
Ballard anxious to start season
Still on the feeling-comfortable theme, defenceman Ballard is feeling much better than he did a year ago, when he was recovering from hip surgery and getting to know his teammates following a trade from Florida.
Now, Ballard, who was a frequent healthy scratch in the playoffs and at other times last season, is anxious to start the preseason. He is glad that training camps not the drawn-out affairs that they used to be. Vancouver’s camp will comprise just three days on ice – and Ballard likes it that way.
“You don’t need to be beating up on your own teammates,” says Ballard. “So you want to get out there and compete against some of the other guys.”
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