Saturday, December 10th @ Florida Panthers
The Panthers have their new military style logo and, as a team on the rise the last few years, a whole slew of new fans. They also have a few ex-Canucks in their lineup, including the newly-acquired Jared McCann. Why watch these games? The chance to see Jaromir Jagr play possibly one last time; reunion of Roberto Luongo with his former teammates; the inevitable scrutiny by analysts and media personalities over McCann vs. Erik Gudbranson.
More from The Canuck Way
- Which team won the Bo Horvat trade?
- What to expect from newcomers Anthony Beauvillier, Aatu Räty
- Back to the future: How the skate uniforms became a regular Canucks’ feature night
- Canucks kick off 2023 with disappointing 6-2 loss to Islanders
- 2nd period penalty trouble sinks Canucks in 4-2 loss against Winnipeg
Just like with Shinkaruk, I sincerely hope McCann doesn’t develop into a 20 or 30-goal scorer for the Panthers. By that point in the season, Canucks fans will know who won that trade. I like the acquisition of Gudbranson because it gives the Canucks more size and shut-down ability on their blue line, especially for penalty kill purposes. But, as a general rule, I lament the departure of any prospect or established player who has the potential to produce offensively.
That being said, McCann’s small frame might hamper his production. Again, as with Shinkaruk, Benning obiously saw something he thought would inhibit McCann’s game in its transition to the NHL level.
Maybe an in-depth comparison would prove differently but the Panthers are similar to the Canucks: very solid goaltending, youth-infused lineup, an excellent mix of veterans (especially once Keith Yandle arrives). Florida is what the Canucks should strive to be in the coming years and could potentially be if they surround their youth with the right veteran group — that’s what makes the Panthers an exciting team to watch. Throw in some more offensive producers to compliment the Sedins and you essentially have a Panthers-esque team on your hands.
Last Season’s Record vs. Panthers: 1-0-1, 7 GF, 7 GA
Next: December 20th/22nd