Con #3: Defence is shook
The Canucks had three new defenders on the back end this year, and the fans were expecting the chemistry to take some time to form. The new-look pairings clicked instantly, and it wasn’t until a couple of dozen games were played, that they struggled to the point where Green decided to switch things up.
Edler was being heavily overplayed.. He managed to dodge a bullet against the Capitals on Nov 23. His age and injury history are concerning. The minutes need to be spread out.
Tyler Myers simply hasn’t gotten it done offensively. He is yet to score a goal and his defensive play has dropped off in November. If a defender in the NHL wishes to stick around and he is not producing offence, then he better be on the top of his game in his own end. Myers now holds a minus-three rating.
Hughes and Chris Tanev have been a highlight to watch, but the other two pairings weren’t finding enough success, which forced Green to break up all three lines. Hopefully, this doesn’t last long, and that the defence gets back on track. Lucky for them, the goaltending duo has been solid all year long.