Record: 40-32-10
Points leader: Nathan Horton (83)
Goals: Nathan Horton (35)
Assists: Nathan North (48)
PIM: David Backes (82)
+/-: Scott Jackson (+8)
Special Teams
PP: 4th in the CPHL (23%)
PK: 5th in the CPHL (84%)
GM thoughts:
The Canucks return, somehow, to the CPHL postseason after being out of the big dance for a
very long time. Although we should technically be the eighth seed, the squad was able to grab the division title and earn home ice advantage over the Nashville Predators. Funny enough, the Canucks are better on the road than at GM Place...er Rogers Arena.
The season was an interesting one, backed by a top line that would either be lighting it up night and and out, or being completely invisible for three or four games at a time. Antti Niemi got it done in goal, while Mike Smith was solid when called upon. The team is nothing to brag about on paper, but the chemistry, leadership and experience helped the team find some success. The special teams were also huge throughout the year.
The obvious biggest issue is the goals for/goals against difference. (30th in for goals for, but 3rd in for goals against)
Frankly, I'm just happy to be in the playoffs. The majority of GMs picked the Canucks to finish 30th overall (aka.
dead last) in the season preview. That's a huge victory for me personally. Even if the Canucks get swept, c'est la vie
Good luck to everyone in the postseason and this summer during the draft.
Vancouver Canucks season summary/playoff preview
