Canucks' Rebuilt Defence Has Led to Contention & Potential Playoff Opponents
Also, an update on the progress of prospect Josh Bloom, and more!
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In today’s edition, we have how the Canucks’ rebuilt defence and goaltending tandem have helped them become Stanley Cup contenders, some potential playoff opponents, an update on prospect Josh Bloom, and more.
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Now on to the good stuff!
Canucks’ Rebuilt Defence & Goaltending Have Led to Contention
March 25, 2024 by Matthew Zator
On March 25, 2023, the Vancouver Canucks were 32-34-5, good for 69 points. Fast forward a year later, and they are 45-18-8 and a full 29 points better in the standings. They have also allowed 75 fewer goals, and hold a plus-60 goal differential, light years better than the minus-24 they were carrying last season. While the structure that head coach Rick Tocchet and his assistants Adam Foote, Sergei Gonchar, and Mike Yeo have preached since the beginning of the season has helped turn that around, the defence corps that general manager Patrik Allvin rebuilt in the offseason and at last year’s trade deadline has made a huge difference as well. Oh, yes, a healthy Thatcher Demko (for the most part) and a beyond-capable backup in Casey DeSmith have helped too.
Canucks Prospect Josh Bloom Learning Lessons in Weird Season
March 25, 2024 by Lukas Bernasiewicz
During last season’s trade deadline, the Vancouver Canucks made many headline-grabbing trades. Like acquiring Filip Hronek from the Detroit Red Wings in exchange for a first and second-round pick. But before this trade, general manager Patrik Allvin made a small move to acquire prospect Josh Bloom from the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for Riley Stillman. Bloom was selected late in the third round of the 2021 NHL Draft and was signed by Buffalo to an entry-level deal after the 2021-22 season.
Canucks’ 4 Potential 2024 First Round Playoff Opponents
March 23, 2024 by Sartaaj Bhullar
They have four potential matchups, which depend on where the club is seated and their opponents. The Canucks have an 82.5% chance to win the Pacific Division, while they have a 17.1% of dropping to the second seed in the division. Nonetheless, their playoff opponent is still to be determined. Here are four potential first-round matchups.Â