Image via Stephen Dyrgas.

While talking about prospects and thinking about the future has its moments, I’m sure we’re all ready to see the familiar faces of the Canucks get back onto the ice and compete. Thankfully, the time for that is rapidly approaching as the team’s main training camp is set to kick off tomorrow (Wednesday September 11th). While it’s still not quite game action, it certainly provides intrigue as jockeying for open roster spots heats up. Keep in mind that the regular season opener is a measly 22 sleeps away.

Read on past the jump for the roster, and the schedule.

The next few weeks mean different things for different players, depending on the point they’re at in their respective careers. There’s of course the established veterans that are assured a spot on the team, and will use this time to get their rhythm down and round into shape so that they can hit the ground running right off the bat.

But beyond that, we’ll also be getting a good look at the recently drafted prospects, who will surely be looking to make their mark and get their feet wet going up against NHL players. And then there’s the other fringe players will be looking to earn a roster spot by turning some heads and impressing the coaching staff. There’s still a handful of decisions that need to be made in terms of roster construction before the regular season opens on October 3rd in San Jose, making the next few weeks critical for many of the attendees.

The more notable competitions will be between Eddie Lack and Joacim Eriksson for the right to back up Luongo, and between Yannick Weber and Frankie Corrado for the 6th defenseman slot. Meanwhile, there’s also some spots up for grabs in the bottom 6 up front, particularly down the middle.

John Tortorella had the following to say about the topic of training camp back in July (during the team’s summer summit):

Below is the list of players that will be coming to the 2013-14 edition of training camp. By my count, there are 21 defensemen, 35 forwards, and 5 goalies on the roster. 

(s/t to Jason Botchford for providing the list).

Image via Canucks.com.

*The Canucks will also be opening the doors of Rogers Arena to fans who want to watch the team’s scrimmage at 8:30 AM on Friday September 13th, Saturday September 14th, and Sunday September 15th. All you have to do get in and get a sneak peak is fill out the form here.