The Vancouver Canucks (2-2-2) and Colorado Avalanche (2-2-1) are both coming off big losses, but both teams hope to get back on track when they face off on Wednesday.
The Canucks are coming off a heart-breaking overtime loss to the Los Angeles Kings on Monday. The team held a 2-0 lead until the final five minutes of the second, when Jeff Carter scored for LA. In the final minute of regulation Vancouver conceded another goal to lose the two points. The teams played into the shootout as Vancouver failed to score a single goal and lost. Roberto Luongo played in that game, but his continued presence in Vancouver could be at fault for the team's problems. Luongo was expected to be traded last summer and the perpetual buzz surrounding his trade prospects have created a difficult situation in goal for Coach Alain Vigneault. Cory Schneider has not looked good through four starts and may feel that he does not have his coach's complete support as the starter.
The Avalanche was recently pummeled by Edmonton in a 4-1 game. Colorado got scoring from its top line once again but looked sloppy in its own zone. Goalie Semyon Varlamov has played every game thus far and could get some rest in favor of backup Jean-Sebastian Giguere.
Vancouver dominated Colorado last season and won all six of the contests between the two clubs.
Prediction: Vancouver should win this game 3-1.
Start Time: 10 PM EST
TV: ALT2, SNET-P