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So the Vancouver Canucks kind of won the Young Stars classic after a 2-1 victory yesterday. The team finished the event with three wins and one loss.

While this event doesn’t really formally crown a winner, but Vancouver won more games than any of the other teams, so that in my books is a win.

So on that note, let’s revisit my reasons why Vancouver would win.

5. Home Ice Advantage

Not as pro-Vancouver as I thought it would be going in, but the city of Penticton was a great host, as always. I’m sure the boys and their families felt welcome wherever they went. Great job, by a great city.

4. Joacim Eriksson

The goals he let in were a bit shaky at times, but all in all, he was very solid. He posted a 2.33 GAA and a .931 SV% throughout the week. Honestly, I though he was a tad shaky at times, but hey, if those numbers add up to shaky, I’ll take them.

3. A Great Group Of Non-Roster Invites

Comets defenceman, Sacha Guimond was about as good as you could ever ask an offensive defenceman to play, with four points in four games. I’m thinking he earns a contract with the Canucks once they can officially offer him one. I also thought, Cain Franson played with a lot of energy and Daniel Johnston looked real good as well – scoring the winner in the San Jose game.


2. An Elite 2013 Draft Class

What really needs to be said about this class? Horvat was a beast in all three zones and on faceoffs. Shinkaruk was maybe the most dynamic and hardest working player in the tournament, finishing with four points in three games. Cassels was right there with Horvat if you were picking Vancouver’s best centre, finishing with three points in four games. And even Cederholm was a respectable +2.

1. A Coach Who Is Looking To Make An Impact

Green went 3-1 and the game they lost, Vancouver probably deserved better after firing 41 shots on net.


So all in all, a great week for the Canucks.

And if you’re looking for someone to catch your eye at the big camp this week, keep an eye on No. 48. Shinkaruk will turn some heads in the coming weeks.



Until tomorrow my friends, stay classy

Ian

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