Ryan Miller was perfect in his relief performance last night, but the Canucks are down 3 games to 1 in their series with the Flames, and you have to wonder if Eddie Lack will get another chance in game five. Lack was great down the stretch when Miller was injured, but can the Canucks afford to give their young goalie another shot when their backs are up against the wall? Especially when you have an experienced veteran like Ryan Miller on the bench.
It doesn’t matter who the coach is, or who the players are, goaltending controversies are just part of Vancouver’s identity. Miller wasn’t great after his return from injury, so it really wasn’t a difficult decision to start Lack in the playoffs. But what about now, with the Canucks facing elimination? When they signed Ryan Miller to a big contract in the offseason, it was for times like this. If they really believed Eddie Lack was going to be their guy, why bring in Miller? Because this wasn’t a veteran signing to mentor Lack and play a 1a, 1b system. Ryan Miller wants to be a starter, not a back-up. Granted, he needs to earn the crease with his play, but getting injured wasn’t his fault, and it had an affect on him.
Lack has the second-worst among playoff starters. Miller was brought in to be their guy. If they’re worried about rust, well he certainly didn’t show any last night. Thursday in Vancouver is a must-win. And that’s not a cliche, it’s a reality. The Canucks won’t lay down; in fact, I believe they will extend this series. But who will be between the pipes? Well that remains to be seen. More on this story: [Vancouver Sun] and [TSN]
Goaltending isn’t the only concern for the Canucks, as they were forced to play without Alex Burrows. He was taken to hospital yesterday. [Sportsnet]. Reports suggest he’s got a broken rib. [Yahoo]
On the Flames side of things, you have to be happy for a guy like Michael Ferland. [Matchsticks and Gasoline]
Lubomir Visnovsky was on the receiving end of a thunderous hit. [Bleacher Report]
The NHL has announced this years finalists for the Lady Byng Trophy. [Today’s Slap Shot]
Some trades made by the Leafs are coming to fruition for playoff teams. [Sportsnet]
Former Toronto Mayor Rob Ford has some suggestions to help the Leafs get better. [The Score]
The Jets need Dustin Byfuglien to smarten up. Maybe try throwing his clothes in the shower? [The Hockey News]
The Sabres are poised to sign Jack Eichel’s teammate from BU to a contract. [College Blog]
Zdeno Chara has a fracture in his leg. [Causeway Crowd]
The Penguins are often criticized for complaining too much (because no other team does, apparently), but now they aren’t complaining enough? [Trib Live]
Who should play in goal for the Senators in game four? [AM 1150]
Obviously what the Oilers need is another former alumni to manage the team…. [Hockey Feed]
And finally, are expensive goalies on their way out? [Globe and Mail]
