+ Hamhuis & Garrison - Love that the coaching staff is keeping these two together. I think their skills compliment each other very well. Both are steady and reliable in the defensive zone. Together I think these two can provide that dominant shutdown defensive pairing we need. I didn't think they played great tonight, but I'm excited to see what they can do going forward. Datysuk and Zetterberg will be a really good test for them on Saturday.
+ Hansen - Just a monster effort from him again tonight, he's been one of our best forwards over the last dozen games or so. If we can add another top six winger at the deadline, I think Hansen should still remain on the second line (with Kesler and the new guy). Out of all the 2nd/3rd line "tweeners" we have on the Canucks, I think Hansen is the best suited for a top six forward role going forward.
+ Pinizzotto - Love what he brought tonight on the 4th line. He lead the team in hits with 4 and seemed to play an effective two way game. I could definitely see him crushing opposing D-men in the playoffs; he has the speed and aggression to do some serious damage on the forecheck. I think he has easily moved ahead of Sestito on the depth chart.
- Bieksa - No need to really go into detail here. Everyone knows he was absolutely brutal tonight.
- Sitting on the lead - The Canucks really need to stop this crap. They have one of the worst winning percentages in the league this season when leading after the 1st and 2nd period. AV needs to realize that his "grind it out" strategy isn't working. I mean, Nashville almost rallied from a three goal deficit on us tonight. If the Preds can do this, offensive teams like the Hawks and Ducks will pick the Canucks apart in the playoffs. I know it's easier said than done (and will never happen), but AV needs to make sure the guys stay aggressive when we have the lead.