Hamhuis back as the Canucks take on the Flames

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – The Calgary Flames and Vancouver Canucks will wrap up Scotiabank Hockey Day in Canada at Rogers Arena on Saturday night, both trying to bounce back following home ice losses to the Columbus Blue Jackets. (7pm, CBC)

For Vancouver, veteran defenseman Dan Hamhuis returns to the lineup after missing the last 21 games. Meanwhile, defenseman Yannick Weber cleared waivers on Saturday morning, and will now be sent down to the AHL’s Utica Comets.

The Flames are five points back of the Canucks in the Pacific division standings, but also hold a game in hand. Vancouver sits five points back of the resurgent Anaheim Ducks for the third playoff spot in the division, and four points out of the final wild card spot in the conference.

With the return of Hamhuis, the Canucks are fully healthy, something Brandon Sutter, who recently returned from a long absence, hopes lasts for awhile.

“A few of us have been out for a big chunk of the season, but knock on wood, we’re healthy right now. That’s going to change over the next few weeks I’m sure, just the way this business works. (But) it’s good to have everyone going.”

Reports indicate Alex Biega will sit this one out with the return of Hamhuis. Jake Virtanen is expected to play Saturday as well.

The Flames have struggled this season after being saddled with lofty expectations at the start of the year. High-end skill isn’t a problem, however. Johnny Gaudreau remains a bright spot this season, and he along with Sean Monahan and Jiri Hudler have combined for three goals and ten points in the last two games.

After Saturday’s action, the Canucks take to the road for a pair of games in Colorado and Arizona beginning Tuesday.

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