Vancouver Blogger Sriseth

Critics didn't have good things to say about Canucks' lack of interest to strengthen their defense before Wednesday's trade deadline. But it didn't seem to bother players as they came hard on full strength Detroit Red Wings to win 6-3. It was an exciting game of hockey, worthy of watching start to finish.

I try not to miss watching the hockey game every time Vancouver Canucks play at the Joe Louis Arena. Energetic & noisy Detroit fans love to engage with the game throughout. High tempo and upbeat style play of highly skilled Detroit Red Wings always make sure an exciting hockey match. Now that Red Wings are back in full strength and are desperately trying to secure a playoff spot in the tough Western Conference, they were a team to beat. Two more reasons made this hockey game special; Roberto Luongo was back for the first time after his Olympic gold medal performance and US Olympic star Ryan Kesler was playing in front of his family and neighbours in Detroit. Both players were at the centre of attention as they put on stellar performance. Kesler continued with his Olympic form to score 2 goals becoming the first star of the match. Luongo stopped 28 shots to help beat Red Wings quite convincingly. Watching Red Wings pulling out their starting goalie half way into the game was a treat to the eyes of Canucks fans. A rare occurrence at Joe Louis. Canucks were ahead of Wings in every aspect of the game; and most importantly Wings were out shot 33-31. The loss put Red Wings barely hanging into the last payoff spot with 20 games remaining, while Canucks firmed the grip on Northwest division lead with 80 points. With back to back wins within two days, Canucks are heading to last four road games of this lengthiest streak on road.

Canucks fans may be disappointed of not strengthening the blueline before the trade deadline, but the they should be happy that Canucks didn't trade any valuable players. Let's have our fingers crossed Willie Mitchell and Kevin Bieksa will return from their injuries for all important payoffs. At TSN Tradecentre this morning, Craig MacTavish named Canucks as one of his five favourite teams to win the Stanley Cup this year. If Olympics heroes Luongo, Kesler and Demitra continue with their sublime form, Stanley Cup dream could well be a reality for Canucks fans.

"It was fun being up 5-2, then being up 6-2, it's something we don't get to do often. It was definitely a fun game to play in tonight." - Ryan Kesler