You may have heard, but that Ryan Kesler guy is returning to Rogers Arena for the first time tonight since being dealt in the offseason. But beyond that, this is still an important game for the Canucks, as they sit just one point back of Anaheim for 1st in the Pacific, but just five points out of a playoff spot, with perennial powerhouses Chicago and San Jose as the teams in pursuit.
It’s a huge game for a bunch of reasons tonight, so read past the jump for a preview.

Broadcast Info

Puck Drop: 7:00 PM PST
TV: Sportsnet Vancouver Hockey
Radio: TSN 1040

Lineups

Linden Vey draws in to the lineup for Bo Horvat. Luca Sbisa returns from injury, replacing the struggling Ryan Stanton. Eddie Lack will make his second start of the season against the Ducks.
Corey Perry and Francois Beauchemin will be in the Ducks lineup after recovering from the mumps, unlike the last meeting between these two teams. Former Canuck D Bryan Allen was traded to Montreal this morning for F Rene Bourque. Josh Manson will likely draw in to the lineup. Devante Smith-Pelly returns from a shoulder injury. Frederik Andersen will start in goal.

Preview

Apologies for the truncated pre-game today. We’ll return to our regular pregame format on Sunday.