Canucks Build From the Rear

With the signing of Aaron Miller and the re-signing of Kevin Bieksa, 'Nucks GM Dave Nonis served notice that the era of defensive hockey in Vancouver is firmly entrenched. The Canucks are now in the enviable position of boasting a solid 6 man starting d-corps, with the prospect of rookie Luc Bourdon and possibly UFA Brent Sopel platooning in the seventh spot (assuming Bourdon doesn't end up in Manitoba for the season). Notwithstanding the rumours that either Ohlund or Salo are on the trading block, what Nonis has done - relatively cheaply - is to ensure that his team has the best opportunity possible of wininng close games. And while the offensively challenged Canucks may not light the lamp at the other end too often, they can rest assured that they shouldn't have any trouble keeping the puck out of their own net. The fantasy impact is clear -Loungo is even more valuable now than ever. If this group stays together, look for his GAA to drop even lower, and his number of shutouts to increase. The only stat that might hurt is his Sv% as he may see less rubber! Team plus/minus should also benefit, though obviously, scoring a few more goals will help on this front too.