I know I'm fairly late to the party but I was at the game last night and, for what it's worth, have a few observations as follows (sorry if some of these may have been discussed earlier)
Hansen - the guy is a stud and was buzzing around all game (I think he is once again Vancouver's 'unsung hero' this year
Luo - anyone else think that he's once again falling forward quite a bit whenever there is a scramble in the crease area?
Bieksa - 65% stud/35% dud - when he's on his game he is very good (had a few big hits last night and attempted to spur the attack a few times). When he's not, his mistakes/gaffes are glaring and usually end up with a great chance the other way or a goal against. I guess the reference to 'riverboat gambler' is pretty much on the money.
Edler - I'm wondering if he's still nursing an injury - at times he looked quite slow (please no hate mail or chocolate embargoes, Monsieur Fosco!) and doesn't really seem that confident (and yes, I know, this is a 'beating-a-dead-burro topic)
Burrows - gets a pass for now, as a result of his recent injury - since he's come back he's been largely ineffective but hopefully a few more games (and getting the shield off) will have him back to his usual gritty self and consistent solid all around play.
Sedin - looked a bit lost out there (although he made a couple of good plays). Still, there was not much in terms of generating offense. He's having a bit of a tough season obviously (I think Vantel's chicken-sacrificing voodoo Sedin curse has finally kicked in)
Weber - made a really nice defensive play, which probably saved a goal. His play, although not exactly overwhelming, was not bad. I didn't realize that he is a pretty good skater and of course provides some decent offense on occasion
Kesler - I think most people will agree the guy has a ton of talent and a fair amount of grit. He created quite a few quality chances last night; however, there were a couple of times where he once again tried to do everything himself. He either has to learn to finish or (god forbid) use his linemates more
Sestito - I've really started to like this guy - the consummate team player and I have yet to see him take a night off in terms of hustle and grit. He's now got 5 goals on the year which is pretty damn good, considering both his very limited ice time and the fact his role is more of an enforcer.
Kassian - it was nice to see him have another decent effort - I think (and hope) it's a sign that he seems to be getting 'it' as evidenced in recent games.
In any event, just my $.02 worth on a game that started with so much promise until the Canucks realized they had to play more than just one period. Once the Hawks took over in the second, it seemed like all the air went out of the team (as well as the building)
P.s Yikes, sorry for the mini-essay ramblings! (yes, apparently I have just a teency weeny amount of too much time on my hands - I know I shouldn't have called it quits with @#$ Sheneequa
