Gameday Preview: Canucks vs Blackhawks (October 21)

After losses in Detroit and Buffalo, the Vancouver Canucks look to get back into the win column against the Chicago Blackhawks.

The Blackhawks still have yet to win a game this season and have an 0-3-1 record.

Chicago last game was a loss in their home opener to the New York Islanders 4-1.

They have also been outscored 15-2 at 5 on 5 this season according to Mark Lazerus of The Athletic.

The Canucks did not hold a morning skate on Thursday but they did hold one on Wednesday.

“We didn’t compete hard enough last night,” said Bo Horvat after Wednesday’s skate. “Worst game we played since we started. It’s unacceptable. We came out today with a hard practice. I’m glad we play tomorrow to redeem ourselves.”

“There’s an air of intensity,” said Jason Dickinson. “A lot of guys are pissed off.”

Here were the lines head coach Travis Green put together at Wednesday’s practice.

So he basically put the same line up from the game against the Sabres. However, these were just the lines from practice and things could change at puck drop.

On Thursday, three players skated. They were Quinn Hughes, Vasily Podkolzin and Luke Schenn.

Hughes missed the game in Buffalo and Wednesday’s skate due to an undisclosed injury.

Green was able to provide an update on the Canucks defenceman. It looks like he is dealing with a lower body injury and is a game-time decision. If Hughes returns, Brad Hunt could possibly come out of the lineup.

Green also confirmed that Thatcher Demko will start in net against the Blackhawks.

For the Blackhawks, Kevin Lankien will start in goal according to Ben Pope of the Chicago Sub Times.

Former Canuck Adam Gaudette practiced with a small group of Blackhawks players but it looks like he will be a healthy scratch according to Drance.

Puck drop is at 5:30. You can watch the game on Sportsnet Pacific or listen to the game on Sportsnet 650.