Anaheim Ducks Look To Start Season Off Right In Vancouver

Apr 03, 2012; Vancouver, BC, CANADA; Anaheim Ducks forward Devante Smith-Pelly (77) celebrates after a goal against Vancouver Canucks goaltender Roberto Luongo (1) during the second period at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports

Vancouver, BC – Well ladies and gents the day has finally come! The Ducks are back and are ready to take on the NHL world, or at least the Western Conference until the Stanley Cup Finals.

Bruce Boudreau’s  squad is healthy and ready to improve upon last year’s final standing of 13th in the West. The get a win tonight, however, will be no easy task as they go up against defending President’s Trophy winner Vancouver Canucks. The good news though is that historically the Ducks fair well on the road at Rogers Arena.

The biggest story is if the Ducks can repeat their post-January success from last year. Bobby Ryan commented to the Los Angeles Times about the importance of a strong start.

"“It could be one of those years where if you get behind the 8-ball early, you don’t know. It’s just ever more important for us to get off to a good start and put all of that to bed. Because those issues will go away if you’re winning. That resolve is not going to take long to get going. It can’t.”"

Teemu Selanne is looking to continue his ageless-wonder performance as well. Last year Selanne joined Gordie Howe in the 60 point/over 40 club. This is Selanne’s 22nd year in the league.

The Canucks are hoping that they made the right decision by naming Cory Schneider the No. 1 goalie over Roberto Luongo in the off-season. The Canucks are looking to return to form now that both Daniel and Henrik Sedin are healthy. One road block is the many other holes in the lineup due to injury. Ryan Kesler (wrist and shoulder), David Booth (groin) and Dan Hamhuis (groin) will all be out for tonight’s game.

With the shortened season, this will the first of three games against the Canucks.

 Head-to-Head Match-ups:

Team Records:

Ducks: 0-0-0, 0 points (T-1st in Pacific Division)

Canucks: 0-0-0, o points (T-1st in Northwest Division)

Broadcast Info:

TV: CBC, Fox Sports – West

Radio: AM 830 (LISTEN LIVE)