4. The Canucks want to make the playoffs every year — will they be back in 2017?
Sarah Laug
As a fan, you always want to see your team make the postseason and be able to be a part of the frenzy that is playoff hockey. Do I think they will be back in 2017? I think it’s definitely a possibility and I, for one, look forward to every single moment that will be a part of the 2016-2017 season.
Gerald Morton
No.There is no reason to think they won’t be much worse.
Jeff Godley
I think they have an outside chance for a couple reasons. First, with their top-five pick they might be able to snag a player who can make an immediate impact. Second, they spent the entire year missing their second-line center to injury; three of their top-four defensemen were out of the lineup at the same time at one point. A healthier lineup will make an improvement on it’s own. Third, the Canucks have added some puck-moving defensemen in Larsen and Stecher, who could step in and improve the Canucks zone exits.
David Joun
If the Canucks retain Dan Hamhuis while getting a top-six winger like Okposo or Eriksson, the Canucks should have a chance to battle for the wild card spots. Of course, a Matthews would have made all the difference.
Steve Boddy
I think it’s possible. I don’t think it was wrong or incorrect when Benning said had the Canucks been healthy, they would’ve been challenging for a wild card spot. I also think when the Canucks don’t have disaster d men like Bartkowski or an AHLer like Biega as full time d men, it’s gonna make a huge difference. Don’t forget how many games Van still pushed to OT or lost by one even with very suspect D.
Janik Beichler
Hope for the best, prepare for the worst.
Next: 5. Success with the twins?