Wednesday, October 8, 2014

Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgary

For Updated Odds on This Game Click Here

The Vancouver Canucks and the Calgary Flames will get their first chance to see if their offseason moves will pay off when they face each other on Wednesday night. Last season, the Canucks beat the Flames in all five of their matchups.

Vancouver had a hard time scoring goals last year and ended up with just 36 wins. Defenseman Dan Hamhuis was the team's best all-around player after finishing with five goals and 17 assists as well as playing great defense. Veteran center Henrik Sedin had a bit of a down season by scoring just 11 goals in 70 games for the Canucks.

Vancouver made quite a few changes over the offseason. They lost center and top goalscorer Ryan Kesler to the Anaheim Ducks, but they were able to sign a new number one goalie in Ryan Miller.

The Flames also had a disappointing season last year after finishing near the bottom of the standings with just 77 points. They scored just 2.5 goals per game while giving up 2.9 goals per game. Their best player a season ago was defenseman Mark Giordano, who had 14 goals and 33 assists. Their top scorer was veteran Mike Cammalleri, who had 26 goals.

Cammalleri left the Flames this past offseason, but they added goalie Jonas Hiller and Mason Raymond, who should be able to help improve their offensive game.

Injuries to Watch

Vancouver Canucks

10/06/14 C Bo Horvat Shoulder "?" Wednesday vs. Calgary
10/06/14 LW Tom Sestito Neck "?" Wednesday vs. Calgary

Calgary Flames

No injuries to report at this time

Guy's Pick: Take Vancouver

Get $60 worth of FREE premium member picks. No Obligation. No Salesman. No Credit Card. Fast Sign up with Instant Access Click Here

Read more articles by Guy Bruhn