Canucks Face Uphill Battle Against Surging Stars
The Vancouver Canucks are looking to turn things around as they head out on a critical five-game road trip, starting with a matchup against the undefeated Dallas Stars on Thursday night.
The Canucks have dropped two straight games, most recently a 5-2 loss to the St. Louis Blues on Monday. They've struggled to find consistency in the early going, averaging just 2.7 goals per game.
Lineup Changes and Injury Updates
The Canucks made a few roster moves this week, recalling forward Max Sasson from the minors while reassigning prospect Arshdeep Cootes to the WHL. They're also dealing with a handful of injuries, including the absence of defensive stalwart Teddy Blueger, who has been sidelined with an upper-body issue.
"Blueger's absence has left a quiet hole in Vancouver's bottom six — the kind you notice when defensive-zone coverage starts to break down," noted The Hockey Writers. His return will be crucial as the Canucks look to shore up their own end against the high-powered Stars.
Stars Remain Unbeaten
Meanwhile, the Stars have come roaring out of the gate, winning each of their first three games. Goaltender Jake Oettinger has been a big part of their success, posting a 1.67 goals-against average and .943 save percentage so far.
"The Stars are off to an undefeated start to the year and will try to keep things rolling against a Vancouver team that has struggled early on," wrote ATS.io.
TL;DR
- The Canucks are looking to get back on track as they begin a five-game road trip, starting with a matchup against the undefeated Dallas Stars.
- Vancouver has dropped two straight games and is dealing with a handful of injuries, including the absence of defensive forward Teddy Blueger.
- The Stars have won all three of their games to start the season, led by the strong goaltending of Jake Oettinger.
- The Canucks will need to tighten up defensively and find more offensive consistency to have a chance against the surging Stars.