Vancouver Canucks: 3 takeaways from loss to Columbus Blue Jackets
Huge night for Luke Schenn
Acquired for Michael Del Zotto and a seventh-round pick a couple of months ago, Luke Schenn has been a pleasant surprise since joining the team.
After being assigned to the Utica Comets, Schenn was called up to the Canucks and has mostly played alongside Ashton Sautner — his defence partner from down in Utica.
Schenn, 29, is a former fifth overall pick and has bounced around six different NHL teams over the course of his career. He has struggled to stay in the lineup on nearly every team he’s been on — but seems to have found himself a spot with the Canucks.
Schenn has had an increased focus on his physical play since joining the Canucks, and that focus showed last night. Schenn finished the night with 12 hits, and now holds the Canucks’ record for most hits in a single game.
Playing with energy and heart, Schenn looked like someone who wants to show everybody watching that he deserves a spot on the team next year. The same could not be said for Nikolay Goldobin and Jake Virtanen, but I’ll save that for another day.
Head coach Travis Green said after the game of Schenn’s effort, “He was one of the bright spots tonight. He had a strong game.” Good for Schenn to receive this praise from his coach after the effort he turned in last night.
At least they made the playoff race exciting. dark. Next
The Canucks will get back at it tomorrow when they take on the Anaheim Ducks from Rogers Arena. Puck drop is at 7 PM.