Canucks played well at times, and choppy at times, but never very badly. The Flyers had plenty of decent chances, which Miller fought through with his team to keep the lead, causing the Flyers to fail to gain any sort of momentum. As a whole, there are a lot of things that could have gone better, but I think that's what happens when you start playing more players who suit the rush rather than the cycle.
Sedin Line
A bit of an off night; their passes weren't connecting and the cycle was having a difficult time becoming established. But as we all know, even on their off nights, these guys are capable of generating chances here and there.
Sutter... no... VIRTANEN Line
This line's greatest asset seems to be a sort of combination of speed, grit, and defensive awareness; this amalgamates into a line that excels at moving the puck up the ice. Virtanen seems best suited to the rush, as evidenced by his first NHL goal!
Horvat Line
This line is an interesting mix, and it certainly clicked tonight. Horvat and Hansen are great defensively, and all three are more than capable in the offensive zone. That's right, I'm including Baerts in this note, as he played his best game of the season tonight. This is what we want to see.
McCann Line
As much as this line seemed to cough up the puck in situations where they would be generating chances, the great thing about it is that this is a 4th line that is putting itself in that position - and it is by no means being sheltered, either. All three players are all over the ice, turning the opposition around and moving the play forward. I think if Cracknell hadn't sat so many games, he would have an even better feel of what to do with the puck with regards to McCann being on his line. McCann didn't have the greatest night offensively, but he looked good on the defensive side of the puck, which is also great to see.
Edler - Tanev
Did a stellar job keeping the puck on the walls in the defensive zone. Really limited the chances for the Flyers, allowing Miller to make those key stops for us without too much concern.
Hamhuis - Bartkowski
It may be the Hamhuis factor, but Bart had a decent game tonight. One misplay on the goal against, but otherwise solid. Hamhuis seemed a bit slow, but still steady as always.
Hutton - Weber
A few miscues, but that's what happens when the lines get a bit shuffled. This is a pretty quick defensive pairing, which I can see being a bit of a problem for opposition who are trying to create a bit of time and space for themselves. Hutton is a very aggressive defender, which is refreshing to see that he has the skill to back it up. Weber made a really nice offensive play, and Hutton grabs an assist.
Miller
Earing that $6m to start this season. Not much more to say than that. He's been great for us.