The Vancouver Canucks will face the Ottawa Senators this evening, but there were a few news stories that transpired yesterday. Here’s everything you need to know.
Boeser, Fantenberg in concussion protocol
Yesterday, the Vancouver Canucks practiced at 8 Rinks in Burnaby. Head coach Travis Green was made available to reporters outside the arena where he confirmed that both Oscar Fantenberg and Brock Boeser are in concussion protocol.
Both players were on the receiving end of some questionable hits. Fantenberg was sandwiched between two Senators’ forwards, and Boeser was shoved from behind headfirst into the boards. Both were fairly ugly plays. You can watch the Boeser hit here, and the Fantenberg hit here.
Boeser was playing in just his second game of the preseason, and after missing training camp, these games were crucial for Boeser to ensure he’s in game shape by the time opening night comes around. Now, he’ll have to miss that crucial time.
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Fantenberg was in the middle of battling for a roster spot, and it appears as though his injury will keep him out longer than Boeser’s will, seeing that Boeser didn’t leave the game right away.
That’s another thing. Why didn’t Boeser leave that game immediately? Is there no concussion spotter at preseason games? Even if there isn’t one, isn’t it more beneficial for the Canucks to err on the side of caution when dealing with one of their star player’s health?
Concussions are no joke, and in a game that really means absolutely nothing, it makes little sense as to why Boeser wasn’t pulled from the game immediately. We’ll be sure to keep you updated as more information regarding these two injuries arises, but for now, a timetable is unclear.
Horvat Captaincy
At least we have some good news to report. Sportsnet’s Iain MacIntyre revealed that general manager Jim Benning revealed to him that if the Canucks name a captain, Bo Horvat will be his choice:
"“Bo’s a mature person, a mature player. I know all his teammates respect him for the way he handles himself on a day to day basis, the habits he has and how conducts himself on a day to day basis. For me, he’d be the guy.”"
It’s still unclear whether or not the Canucks will name Horvat the captain this season, but MacIntyre’s comments seem to be tipping off that a captaincy announcement could be in store. Whether it be before the season starts, or whether the Canucks will wait until their home opener on October 9th to announce it, it’s looking like Horvat will almost certainly be the next captain of the Canucks.
The Canucks will once again battle the Ottawa Senators at home from Rogers Arena tonight. Thankfully, you can watch this one on Sportsnet.