Miller the man again as Canucks battle the Flyers

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – The Vancouver Canucks are just four points out of a playoff spot in the Western conference entering Sunday’s battle with the Philadelphia Flyers at Rogers Arena. (7pm, SNET 360)

They are also 25th in the NHL overall standings, but you can bet the glass is half full with the Flyers in town. Ryan Miller will make the start in goal. That could be considered a surprise, but given his strong play – 35 saves – in last night’s win over the Calgary Flames, the Canucks coaching staff has decided to stick with the hot hand.

It is the first time this season that Miller has been tabbed the starter in a back to back situation, as so much has been made the last two years about his performance levels with rest in his back pocket.

Perhaps it shouldn’t have been in doubt, as Willie Dejardins wasn’t shy about showing his hand even after Saturday’s game.

“He’s played well the last couple games. The big key is that he feels good. We’re not going to come back with him if we’re worried about him getting injured or something. If he’s rested and ready (starting again) is certainly in the conversation.” the head coach said last night.

The team also announced that Jack Skille will likely sit this one out, with Reid Boucher to take the spot in the lineup.

Like Vancouver, the Flyers come into Sunday night on the outside of the playoff picture. Philadelphia sits three points behind the Boston Bruins for the second wild card spot in the Eastern conference. Philly has dropped five of seven in the month of February, and lost two straight in western Canada to the Flames and Oilers, respectively.

At the other end of the rink from Miller will be Michael Neuvirth, as Steve Mason gets the night off. Neuvirth has posted a record of 9-7-1 this season.

The Canucks will enjoy the league-mandated five day bye week after this game, and will return to action next Saturday against the San Jose Sharks at Rogers Arena.

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