People who know me know all too well that I am a HUGE Vancouver Canucks fan… have been since I was 10 years old and watched King Richard Brodeur almost take my beloved team to the promise land. Then in 1994 Bure, Linden and group did the same and got even closer by taking the New York Rangers to game 7 in Madison Square Garden. But, alas the lads couldn’t close. In the new millennium, we’ve had a cast of characters that together were arguably the best team assembled in Canucks history. Despite their excellent regular seasons and loads of promise, they couldn’t muster up anything worth talking about in the playoffs. And to make matters worse, last year they didn’t even qualify. So here we roll in to season 36 with a Canucks team that has been dismantled and restocked with less talented and unproven players. Should I give up hope? No way.

I like the fact that nobody expects big things from this team. The team of the last few years, seemed to crumble under the weight of expectations and ultimately couldn’t deliver. Last year, we saw two teams in Carolina and Edmonton play with no expectations make it all the way to the finals. Also, there is the emergence of the Sedin twins who look awesome! I had a chance to seem them in pre-season action against the Ducks, and they were by far the most dominant players on the ice. I believe the combination of a new coach, renewed work ethic, hardworking veterans, and hungy youngsters will contribute to a much improved team play this year. And, oh yes, did I mention our new goalie?

This team may not be as titillating as before and will likely not score as many goals, but they won’t allow many either and that’s why I have faith. So don’t worry fellow Canuck fans. Just remember, WE ARE ALL CANUCKS.