The Vancouver Canucks (31-25-11) conclude their three-game homestand on Tuesday when they take on the Winnipeg Jets. This is a crucial game for Vancouver as not only do they need the points, but they also must show they can defeat Winnipeg, who very well could be their first-round opponents. So far this season, the Jets have the upper hand, as they defeated the Canucks 6-1 back in January.
Latest From THN’s Vancouver Canucks Site:
Tuesday's matchup is massive as it will show if Vancouver can generate offence against one of the best defensive teams in the league. Winnipeg is allowing 2.28 goals per game, which could be a problem for a Canucks team that already struggles to score. In the end, this game could come down to the power play, which has also caused some issues in Vancouver over the past few weeks.
Players to Watch:
Conor Garland:
For the Canucks to be successful, they will need a big game from Conor Garland. Whether on the power play or at even strength, Garland's ability to get in on the forecheck and frustrate the opposition is a big reason why he has been one of Vancouver's most consistent forwards all season. With points in three of his last five games, Garland's line will need to continue to win their matchup all night long if the Canucks want to skate away with two points.
Josh Morrissey:
Josh Morrissey is a player that needs to be discussed more when it comes to the best defensemen in the NHL. He has 52 points in 67 games and is averaging over 24 minutes a game. Expect Morrissey to play a big role in this game, not just in the defensive zone but offensively as well.
Vancouver Canucks (31-24-11):
Last 10: 5-5-0
Quinn Hughes: 16-47-63
Elias Pettersson: 15-27-42
Conor Garland: 17-24-41
Jake DeBrusk: 23-15-38
Brock Boeser: 18-20-38
Winnipeg Jets (47-17-4):
Last 10: 6-3-1
Kyle Connor: 36-49-85
Mark Schheifle: 35-40-75
Gabriel Vilardi: 27-34-61
Nikolaj Ehlers: 21-36-57
Josh Morrissey: 10-42-52
Game Information:
Start Time: 7:00 pm PT
Venue: Rogers Arena
Television: Sportsnet
Radio: Sportsnet 650
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