Vancouver Canucks: Week 8 Preview, Predictions
By Jeff Godley
Thursday, Dec. 1: Canucks vs. Anaheim Ducks
In their first meeting of the season, Ryan Kesler and Kevin Bieksa won against their former team.
Since that game, the Ducks signed key defenseman Hampus Lindholm to a six-year contract. Lindholm has played nine games this season and managed only two assists.
Overall, the Ducks have been average this season. They are 16th in goals-for, and 11th in goals-against. Currently, Anaheim sits fourth in the Pacific Division, just one point back of the Los Angeles Kings. They hold the first wild card spot.
With Frederik Andersen traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in the off-season, John Gibson has become the Ducks’ number one. The results have been lackluster so far. Gibson only has a 6-7-3 record, with mediocre numbers.
Meanwhile, newcomer Jonathan Bernier is performing well in a backup role. He is 4-1-1, with a 2.02 goals-against and .933 save-percentage.
Gibson has a bit of ground to make up if the Anaheim Ducks want to fulfill their Stanley Cup dreams. The window for this team is closing fast.
Predictions
Gerald:
2. 104. 1. 105. Final
Kesler and Bieksa take pity on old team and play terrible. At least, that is what they tell Carlyle when he launches into one of his trademark rages.
Janik:
1. 104. 4. 105. Final
The Ducks really aren’t that good right now, but they can still find ways to beat Vancouver. Bo Horvat with the lone goal.
Alex:
104. 2. 105. Final. 3
They’ve surprisingly played Anaheim well and will be due for a win here.
Jeff:
105. Final. 2. 104. 4
Just like last game. The Canucks will be close going into the third period, but Anaheim will ultimately prove to be too much for them.