Game Report: Canucks 6 - Blackhawks 2

The Vancouver Canucks won their third game in a row, defeating the Chicago Blackhawks 6-2. It was one of the more entertaining games of the year, especially in the third period which had long stretches without stoppages, some pretty plays and several big hits. Coming into the game Chicago knew they had to stay out of the box, unfortunately they failed to do so and that ultimately proved to be their downfall.

Chicago actually played well in the first period and remained in the game despite taking three minor penalties.

It was a different story in the second period. Daniel Sedin would open the scoring 2:01 into the period on a wrist shot through traffic. Soon after, the Chicago penalty parade would begin and the Canucks capitalized. Chicago would take five minor penalties leading to two Canuck power-play goals by Mattias Ohlund and then Sami Salo. Ohlund would add another goal to put Vancouver up 4-1 after two.

Chicago would open the third period with a power-play goal of their own, however they would soon find themselves in the penalty box leading to a Morrison power-play goal. Markus Naslund would add one more in the last minute of play.

The game was ultimately decided by Chicago's poor grasp of the "new NHL." Chicago penalties: hooking, interference, holding the stick, hooking, hooking, hooking, goaltender interference, hooking, hooking and interference. The Chicago coaching staff must be driving themselves crazy.

Vancouver didn't make things easy on Chicago. They worked hard and skated well all night, not letting up at all even in the third period when the game was out of reach. It was a complete team effort.

Thoughts...

• The WCE had their best game of the season. Todd Bertuzzi had his best game, skating well and showing confidence with the puck. Brendan Morrison was also great. At times the line was nearly too good, over-passing the puck, but at that point the game was decided and they can be excused for putting on a nice show for the fans.
• Mattias Ohlund was outstanding, scoring two goals and laying out several big hits. Pavel Vorobiev will not look forward to returning to Vancouver.
• I've been ripping McCarthy a lot, so I have to point out that he had his best game as a Canuck.
• The Sedin's are playing well, showing tremendous puck possesion. Daniel in particular is playing with a lot of confidence, as demonstrated by his 4 shots on goal.
• I really liked the way the team stepped up the physical play in the third period after the high stick on Jovo. They were taking the body hard, sending a message that GM Place won't be a fun place to play. I especially liked the dynamic Goren brings and Ryan Kesler looked possessed, he's going to be a good one come playoff time.
• Faceoffs are still a problem, Linden was the only centre above 50%(7/13)

The Canuck Fan's Three Stars

1. Mattias Ohlund - Ohlund was a force, great hits and two goals.
2. Brendan Morrison - During the 3rd I was debating who would get the 2nd star... Morrison sealed it with his goal that added to his two assists.
3. Todd Bertuzzi - Bertuzzi had his best game finishing with 3 assists. When Bertuzzi goes into a slump he needs to pull out the tape of this game. Skate and you can dominate! It's as simple as moving your feet.

Next up for Vancouver are the suddenly streaking Coyotes, Thursday 7:00 pm RSN.

• ESPN Box Score
• Canucks.com Recap