Vancouver was busy in the wake of yesterday’s disappointing 4-0 loss to the Kings, making a roster switch in goal while offering positive health updates on some key players.
First, the goalies -- Jacob Markstrom, who allowed three goals in eight minutes in his only appearance since getting recalled, has been sent back to AHL Utica to get some game action. Comets goalie Joacim Eriksson, who made his NHL debut for the Canucks last season, is on his way to Vancouver and will back up Eddie Lack, beginning tomorrow night against Toronto.
Speaking of tomorrow’s game, it sounds as though d-man Kevin Bieksa will play for the first time since busting his hand on Jan. 20. The veteran rearguard, who has missed the last 21 games, said he’s excited to draw back in and help the playoff push.
“It’s the time of year where points are so crucial right now because the standings are so tight,” he explained, per the Canucks website. “When you’re out, you get the chance to watch a few more games and see some teams and it doesn’t seem like Calgary is going to lose too many games and LA is obviously going to be a top team down the stretch, so we’ve got to get as many points as we can.”
Another injured Canuck -- forward Chris Higgins, sidelined with a lower-body injury -- will also play for the first time in three games.
Related: After ‘nightmare’ start for Markstrom, Canucks face goaltending conundrum