Canucks @ Rangers Pre Game

Canucks @ Rangers, SNET-P, TEAM 1040, 4:00Pm

Tonight's game will feature a few line up changes for the Canuck's. Starting in goal will be Cory Schneider. Big game for Schneider as any game at MSG is always big for an NHL guy. I'm sure he'll be ready and as calm an cool as he has been all season.

Tambellini who has hit a bit of a stand still in point production lately has been demoted to the fourth line while Hansen will take his spot on the 2nd line.

On defense Alberts is out and Rome is in.

Any game for a Western team at MSG is a big game, tonight is no different for the Canucks. The team is still riding a hot streak and would like to keep the roll going. I see the Twins trying to get out in a first line vs first line match up. They should be able to take advantage of that match up and put up some points.

Kesler might have a little side mission with Hansen of shutting down regular Canucks killer Gaborik. Kesler has been owning pretty much any match up he's had of late and even with a sore finger he has the defensive skills to shut down anyone in the league. Hansen on his line will make the line slightly grittier without losing any speed. This line will need to keep their speed up to get in on the forecheck.

The third line will need to have a solid game tonight as the Rangers have a reasonably deep team. The same consistent defensive play they've been playing most of the season will be good tonight.

The fourth line will have to play a big roll tonight adding a few extra minutes to keep the big guys rested for tomorrow and I expect a Prust vs Volpatti fight. Prust typically goes with Rypien when he gets the chances but with Rypien out Volpatti will need to step up. Even though Tambellini is a smaller body he isn't afraid to throw his weight around. If this line can get the puck in deep and crash the defense hard they will have a big effect on this game. They have the ability to pop a goal in tonight, keep your eye out for them.

On defense Kevin Bieksa is hot, in his past 10 games he's a +14. He can probably thank Hamhuis for giving him the ability to jump into the play, but don't discredit his defensive play either. I have been having a bit of an issue with Rome lately and would like to see him step up tonight. When Alberts is in, I am extremely confident in the Alberts, Ballard pairing. When Rome is in it's shaky at best.

Tonight should be a great game against an old foe. Enjoy!

GO CANUCKS GO!

Twitter me @bmah03

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