It was all smiles when the Vancouver Canucks clinched the President’s Trophy for the first time in franchise history.  However back to back losses to the bottom dwelling Edmonton Oilers has left a bitter taste in Canucks’ fans mouths.  

While it makes perfect sense that the Canucks are finding it difficult to get motivated to play a game that means absolutely nothing to them in the standings, it is no excuse for the way they’ve performed over those 2 games.  

Coach Alain Vigneault agrees, as he ripped his team apart during Monday’s practice, although it failed to spark the team as they went on to get shutout by the Oilers the next day.

The players claim they know the importance of playing hard and finishing the season strong so they’re sharp come playoffs.  However many have to question that, after coming out flat for the rematch against the Oilers after being embarrassed by them on home ice.  Henrik Sedin, the team’s captain, says the team will be ready for playoffs, as they will feel the urgency.

As everyone is already aware, Manny Malhotra will miss the remainder of the season as well as playoffs.  His leadership both on and off the ice could be used right now to help dig the Canucks out of this mini slump they’re on.

Mikael Samuelsson made his return to the lineup on Tuesday night.  While both Alexander Edler and Dan Hamhuis are expected to be back before playoffs.  Andrew Alberts is also close to making his return, although it is unknown if he will be in the lineup come playoff time if he is healthy, as the Canucks have 6 defencemen that are likely ahead of him on the depth chart.

Jordon Judge

HockeyGods