Canucks return from the break to face the Kings

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – The holidays are over for the Canucks and they return to work this evening for a home date against the Los Angeles Kings. Vancouver practiced yesterday and Alex Burrows feels they are set for the showdown against their Pacific Division foes after a good Christmas break.

“It is always nice to spend time with family around Christmas. We enjoyed the break and had a really good practice yesterday that was high paced. The guys are ready to go tonight and hopefully we can get on a bit of a winning streak.”

Coach Willie Desjardins is rolling the dice and changing his top line again. Jayson Megna is the latest to get his chance to play alongside the Sedin’s. Megna has three points in 18-games this season, but he feels he can contribute tonight.

“I want to take my game to the next level.” Jayson Megna is excited for the opportunity to play alongside the twins tonight. pic.twitter.com/Dj3yQCLCdO

— Vancouver Canucks (@Canucks) December 28, 2016

“It is an excellent opportunity for me, especially to get back in to the lineup and have the opportunity to play with them. It is big for me and it’s a chance to show I can help the team win.”

Alex Edler will be back on the blueline after missing nearly a month with a broken finger. Burrows says it will provide a massive boost to the team.

“He is our best defencemen. Missing him and Chris Tanev for a long time wasn’t an ideal situation for the team. Having them back now is huge. He is so reliable off breakouts. He reads the play well, defends well and he’s good offensively so he is a big part of our team, that is for sure.”

Ryan Miller gets the start in net for Vancouver. The Kings will likely counter with Peter Budaj.

Jannik Hansen will not be in Vancouver’s line-up. He is sidelined for four-to-six weeks with a knee injury.

The puck drops at 7 p.m. at Rogers Arena and you can watch the game on Sportsnet.