Vancouver Canucks 2010-11 Season Preview
Posted 9/28/2010
The Vancouver Canucks are once again coming off of a very solid season where they found themselves just a step below the top teams in the Western Conference.
There is plenty of offensive firepower, with Henrik Sedin being the most dangerous player on the ice. The Art Ross and Hart Trophy winner will also likely be named a captain this year and center the 1st line.
He will receive some help from brother Daniel Sedin, who the team hopes is fully recovered from offseason shoulder surgery. Shoulder injuries can be very tricky, especially in such a physical sport.
Robert Luongo is a solid presence in goal. He isn't among the top goalies in the league, but he is certainly better than league average.
He also has the ability to get hot at the right time, and that can cause problem for even the best offensive teams.
There significant changes for the defensive lines in the offseason.
Dan Hamhuis and Keith Ballard are expected to contribute immediately, as improving the defense was one of the team's top offseason priorities.
Vancouver's failure to make any significant offseason additions likely leaves them in a similar position as the past several years. They will once again reach the playoffs, but the Stanley Cup remains out of reach.