Canucks host the Sharks amidst trade deadline buzz
Posted February 28, 2016 10:10 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – Amidst all the rumours that the NHL’s trade deadline brings, the Vancouver Canucks still have a game to play on Sunday afternoon, as the San Jose Sharks invade Rogers Arena. (4pm, SNET)
This game marks a stretch of five meetings between the two clubs between now and the end of March. The Canucks trail the Sharks by ten points in the standings, so if they wish to hit that playoff mandate, these five games are the opportunity Vancouver needs, as unlikely as it may seem. The Sharks are the third playoff team in the Pacific as of today’s action.
The Sharks have been active on the trade front, acquring veteran goaltender James Reimer from the Toronto Maple Leafs on Saturday. Reimer, and forward Jeremy Morin are not expected to join the Sharks until later this week, due to Visa/paperwork issues
Dan Hamhuis, Radim Vrbata, and six of the seven players on ‘The List’ from earlier this week (Linden Vey, Yannick Weber, Brandon Prust, Chris Higgins, Ronalds Kennins, and Matt Bartkowski) are all still a part of the Canucks organization. Adam Cracknell was placed on waivers by the team on Sunday morning.
Hamhuis did admit after practice on Saturday that he is at least ‘open’ to the possibility of a trade to the Dallas Stars, fuelling more speculation. He also added that it’s just about impossible to ignore all that talk. Barring a trade, Hamhuis is expected to play in the final game before the deadline.
“Even if you don’t read or hear anything, you’re being asked the questions. Is it going to distract you? Is it going to be a problem out there? Can you just roll with it and play well? That’s the road I’m trying to take.” Hamhuis said Saturday.
Head coach Willie Dejardins said that forward Radim Vrbata should resume skating with the team on Monday. Jacob Markstrom missed Saturday’s practice with the flu.
Like the Canucks, the Sharks have struggled at home this season, but sit in a playoff spot due to a stellar road record of 21-9-3.
