Yahoo Sports Canucks Gameday Preview #30: Hughes VS Makar, Who Comes Out On Top?
The Vancouver Canucks (15-9-5) will look to get back on track Monday when they face the always-dangerous Colorado Avalanche (18-14-0). Last season, the Avalanche swept the three-game season series, including a 4-3 overtime victory at Rogers Arena on March 13. A game that will feature multiple Norris and Hart Trophy candidates, this matchup will be a perfect test for Vancouver's defensive structure.
Latest From THN’s Vancouver Canucks Site:
Canucks Goaltending Prospect Records Franchise First In The AHL
Top Five at 15: The Canucks’ Top Five Performers In The First Half Of December 2024
Canucks World Juniors Throwback 2: Russia
If the Canucks want to get back in the win column, they will need to limit the opportunities for Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen. Colorado's dynamic duo sit first and third in NHL scoring, with MacKinnon having already hit the 50-point mark. While it will be a challenge, Vancouver needs to ensure they stick to these two like glue and try to at least leave with an even stat line while the two superstars are on the ice.
Players to Watch:
Quinn Hughes:
Monday's matchup is the perfect opportunity for Quinn Hughes to show the hockey world why he should be a Hart Trophy candidate. The Canucks captain leads the team with 34 points and, with a big night, could be tied with Cale Makar in points. The heartbeat of this Vancouver team, do not be surprised if it is another 27+ minute night for Hughes on Monday.
Cale Makar:
As expected, Makar has started the year hot, with 37 points through 32 games. The always-dynamic defender has been a crucial part of the Avalanches' power play and is already up to 15 points with the man advantage. One of the top players currently in the NHL, like MacKinnon and Rantanen, Makar will make the opposition pay if given time and space.
Top 5 Scoring Leaders (Goals, Assists, Points):
Vancouver Canucks (15-9-5):
Quinn Hughes: 7-27-34
Elias Pettersson: 8-18-26
Conor Garland: 8-17-25
Jake DeBrusk: 14-9-23
Brock Boeser (22 Games): 8-11-19
Colorado Avalanche (18-14-0)
Nathan MacKinnon: 13-37-50
Mikko Rantanen: 18-28-46
Cale Makar: 9-28-37
Casey Mittelstadt: 7-15-22
Samuel Girard: 2-14-16
Game Information:
Start Time: 7:30 pm PT
Venue: Rogers Arena
Television: Sportsnet
Radio: Sportsnet 650
