Last year, the Canucks were bumped from the playoffs looking physically and mentally exhausted. Perhaps all those close 1 goal games and overtimes in Dallas caught up to them.

It is a tough 82 game grind, so what do you think they need to do in order to not just survive the regular season, but be refreshed and ready for the playoffs? (I assume they will make the playoffs if Luongo has to drag them in)
Thanks!
Karen

Posted October 4, 2007 01:22 PM

Q| You left Morrison out of the lineup re:Alan's question. Is he in the 3rd-4th line scenario or has there been a change, trade that I missed?

I would imagine they will likely rotate a few guys (Burrows, Cowan, Isbister and even Linden). It will likely all shake out in the first couple of weeks.

Posted October 3, 2007 12:22 PM

Oh hi Shane - wanted to get your thoughts on the strengths and weaknesses of the White Rhinos for this season. Also interested to hear if the new league is more or less competitive than the J?

Thanks,

Ari Gold

Posted October 2, 2007 11:27 AM

Q| Why do you think Dave Nonis passed on giving Rick Rypien a chance to show what he can do in the 'bigs'? Thanks.

A| I think Rick Rypien was sent down for a couple of reasons...and their names are Ryan Shannon and Mason Raymond.

Both kids came into camp and impressed with their speed and attitude. There are only so many "kids" you are going to carry on the roster. I have no doubt though, that Rypien will get a shot as the season moves forward. Injuries and slumps dictate that he will get a chance to show the coaches they made a mistake.

Thanks for your question

Posted October 1, 2007 03:53 PM

Q| I'm just wondering what every other Canucks fan is wondering: Who will make up the 4 fwd and 3 d lines for the team? Basically, who is going to stay and who will be sent to Manitoba?

Thank you,
-Alan

A| The final cuts have been made, and it appears a number of young kids are going to be given a real shot.

Mason Raymond will play on a line with the Sedin twins.
Ryan Shannon will play on the second line with Ryan Kesler and Markus Naslund.

That leaves Trevor Linden, Byron Ritchie, Taylor Pyatt, Brad Isbister, Matt Cooke, Jeff Cowan and Alex Burrows. Seven guys for six spots... you can mix them up a number of ways.

I imagine lines 3 and 4 will be juggled around until the coach finds a combo that works.

As far as the blue line goes...the Canucks picked up Mike Weaver Tuesday, sending Nathan McIver down to the farm.

Hope this helps, and thanks for sending in the question.

Posted October 1, 2007 10:14 AM