You don’t watch preseason hockey expecting the same pace as Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals, but man, this was a snoozer of a game. The fine people of North Saanich were obviously prepared to take whatever they could in this nationally broadcasted Kraft Hockeyville spectacular, but for everybody else, they have have been more entertained by watching a live feed of the rink renovations. That is, until overtime, when Saanich Braves alumni Adam played hero and started the Canucks’ preseason off on a high note.

The broadcast told us all that the two teams combined for 26 scoring chances in the first fifty minutes of the game, but really, you could count prime opportunities on a single hand. Brendan Gaunce had the only legitimate rush in the first half of the game, and even then, Troy Grosenick turned the ensuing wristshot into his only notable save before both teams swapped their goalies.

Beyond that.. I really don’t know what to tell you about the rest of regulation. Luca Sbisa took some penalties. Chris Higgins blocked a shot and is already possibly injured. Both sides had some vague chances, but nothing serious. Three-on-three overtime couldn’t come soon enough.

Things became much more exciting at this point. The Canucks set up in the offensive zone, and Jannik Hansen found himself with the puck on the point. He wound up for a slapshot and then tried to cut to the wing, getting hauled down and drawing a penalty. The Canucks would never need to start that powerplay, however, as before the Sharks could touch the puck.. 

It’s a bit of a cop-out to give this all to Cracknell, but again, this was a painfully boring game. I suppose you can split some of the player of the game credit amongst the penalty killing unit that prevented an opening goal on four occasions, though Cracknell played a part in that as well.

I’d give credit to the goaltenders as well because their on-ice performance merits it, but Richard Bachman ruined it for everybody. 

See? What in heaven’s name is this? Richard, you were signed nearly three months ago. Buy a new mask, or get some spraypaint. The Oilers are not tolerated here. This organization is not afraid to trade goaltenders on a whim.

Same teams, different venue, slightly different time. The Sharks and Canucks will take each other on once again tomorrow night at Rogers Arena. Remember, there are metal detectors at the gates now, so show up early if you don’t want to miss any of what will hopefully be a more exciting game!