Canucks Preview: Final two games against the Winnipeg Jets

Could we see a more youthful blueline?

If Canucks’ Twitter had their way, the answer to this question would be an overwhelming “yes please”.

For the past few days, fans have been clamouring at the idea of a new-look blueline, particularly on the left side.

And, to be honest, they might be onto something.

Despite his inconsistent defensive capabilities and horrendous plus/minus rating this season, Quinn Hughes is a lock to remain in the line-up for the rest of the season. No question there. The kid knows how to put up points, and the team is hoping that these remaining games will be an opportunity for Hughes to iron out some of his issues before heading into the offseason.

And with Olli Juolevi continuing to add games to his professional hockey tenure so far, as well as Jack Rathbone putting up consistently strong performances over the past three contests, it might be time for Green to roll with the young guns for the remainder of the season, putting Alex Edler on the outside looking in.

Realistically speaking, the chances of this happening are low.

Green has a history of relying on veteran players on a nightly basis, with Edler often being his go-to, number one choice in that aspect. The 35-year-old still logs 20+ minutes of ice time each game, and continues to play solid roles at both even strength and on the penalty kill.

On the flip side, however, you can’t ignore the fact that Edler’s gameplay has taken a big step back this year. More often than not, the blueliner is a defensive liability when he’s on the ice, unable to keep up with today’s fast-paced style of play.

Yes, he still has a year or two of good hockey left in the tank, and some Canucks’ fans (including this writer) wouldn’t mind seeing #23 return to the club next year on a short-term, team-friendly, third-pairing/seventh defencemen type of deal.

But when you factor in his expiring contract, as well as the team’s cringe-worthy track record of signing UFAs in a timely manner, regardless of how much they express that they want to stay in Vancouver, it’s actually more realistic to expect Hughes, Juolevi and Rathbone to make up the left-side of the defensive core next season, with Edler out of the picture.

So if that’s the case, why not try it out for the next seven games to see what you’ve got to work with? Wins aren’t needed at this point, so it doesn’t matter too much if the rookies drop the ball completely.

In addition, this experiment wouldn’t happen every game.

Keep in mind that Juolevi has suited up for 21 games this season, and would be eligible to receive a salary bonus if he hits 27, so we all know the owners aren’t going to let that happen.

Plus, you’d be able to properly rest Edler in the coming weeks, which could benefit the team in the long run if they do end up bringing the Swedish veteran back next year.

As alluded to before, Canucks’ fans would be completely on board for this move, but we’ll see if Green and co. feel the same way.

What are your predictions for the final two games of the season between the Canucks and Jets? Make sure to drop a comment below!