Two weeks ago, I threw a disturbing stat at you that showed just how poor the Canucks have performed against Western Conference teams that qualified for last year's playoffs.
That stat now, after 10 games, sits at a very telling one and nine. In those contests, the Canucks have been outscored 41-19.
Conclusion? The Vancouver Canucks, despite the pre-season hype, are not in the same stratosphere as teams like the Sharks, Flames and Hawks. Worse yet, I've seen very little evidence this is about to change anytime soon.
So many educated fans have asked the question: "What is the Canucks true identity?" Tough as nails, hard to play against every single night? No, that belongs to the Flames. How about "Lightning fast, coming at you in waves, capable of blowing you out of the water or coming back to beat you?" No, that sounds a lot like the Blackhawks.
The Sharks' identity? Quite simply: "No one beats us" (Playoffs notwithstanding).
To find the Canucks true identity this season look no further than the foot stone of Lady Liberty herself. "Give us your tired, your poor and we will run up some nice stats on them because God knows it ain't happening against the better teams".
Until the Canucks can close the gap on their 1-9 record vs. '08-'09 playoff teams they will continue to disappoint the huddled masses that eagerly bought into their assured eliteness at the beginning of the season. And yes, that includes me and my 101-point prediction.
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