The Vancouver Canucks face a week filled with uncertainty and potential roster changes as they continue their homestand at Rogers Arena. Here's a look at the key storylines to follow:
Boeser Injury
Brock Boeser's health is a major concern after he took a late hit to the head from Bryan Rust in Sunday's 3-2 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins. Canucks head coach Adam Foote described it as a "vicious head shot," and teammate Jake DeBrusk called it a "pretty dirty play". The NHL is expected to review the play for possible supplementary discipline. Boeser has a history of head injuries, having missed seven games last season after a similar hit. The Canucks, already dealing with numerous injuries, can ill afford to lose another key player. Foote did not have an immediate update on Boeser's condition.
Chytil & Blueger Returns
The Canucks received a boost with the return of Filip Chytil and Teddy Blueger to the lineup. Chytil, 26, had been out since October 19 after suffering an upper-body injury. He made his return on Friday against the New Jersey Devils, centering the second line with Brock Boeser and Drew O'Connor. Blueger, 31, also returned after missing a significant amount of time due to a lower-body injury. He played against the Washington Capitals on Wednesday. Blueger's return is particularly important as he is a key penalty killer. In the game against the Penguins, Blueger scored a goal, had three shots, five hits.
Kane Trade Rumors
Evander Kane's name is once again circulating in trade rumors as the March 6 trade deadline approaches. With the Canucks in a rebuilding phase, the team is reportedly willing to listen to offers for veteran players like Kane. According to NHL Network's Kevin Weekes, the Dallas Stars and Colorado Avalanche are among the likely destinations for Kane. Other teams, such as the Los Angeles Kings, have also shown interest. Kane, 34, has nine goals and 14 assists in 49 games this season. Some reports suggest that the Canucks could potentially fetch a second-round pick for Kane if he continues his strong play. The Canucks acquired Kane from the Edmonton Oilers in the offseason for a fourth-round pick. Because both the Avalanche and Stars are close to the salary cap, the Canucks may have to retain some of Kane's $5.125 million cap hit to facilitate a trade.
This Week's Schedule
The Canucks continue their homestand with three games this week:
- January 27 vs San Jose Sharks: The Canucks begin the week against the San Jose Sharks.
- January 29 vs Anaheim Ducks: Vancouver then faces the Anaheim Ducks.
- January 31 vs Toronto Maple Leafs: The homestand concludes with a Saturday matinee against the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The Canucks are looking to improve their standing in the league, currently sitting in 32nd place with 39 points. They have struggled to maintain leads and need to find consistency as they navigate the remainder of the season.
