http://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/nhl/story/2013/01/08/sp-nhl-2013-team-preview-vancouver-canucks.htmlGood read, here is a summary.
Key Arrivals: D Jason Garrison.
Key Departures: D Sami Salo, F Sammy Pahlsson, D Aaron Rome, D Marc-Andre Gragnani.
Key Decisions: Re-signed RFA G Cory Schneider to 3-year, $12-million US contract; re-signed F Alex Burrows to 4-year, $18-million extension; retained head coach Alain Vigneault.
2011-12 record: 51-22-9, won Presidents’ Trophy. Eliminated in first playoff round by Los Angeles.
Job No. 1 for GM Mike Gillis is to work out a
Luongo deal. (could be a small return)
Schneider appears to be a capable replacement (.933 save percentage in 58 starts over the last two seasons), though it’s uncertain
how he’ll handle the workload and pressure (and perhaps tougher opponents) that come with being a No. 1 goalie.
The big question surrounds the health of two-way centre
Ryan Kesler, who’s recovering from off-season shoulder and wrist surgeries.
There’s still no timetable for his return.