GAME DAY: Canucks @ Rangers

It's a day some thought would never happen. Facing off against Markus Naslund. I don't feel like getting into an examination of did the team do right by him, what are they thinking, etc. None of that matters. There are 2 valuable road points on the line tonight. Beating Naslund, while on everyone's minds, is secondary. The Canucks can move back into 1st in the Northwest with this victory, and after an inconsistent outing against the Islanders, will likely be a lot more focused tonight, and ready to take a boisterous MSG crowd out of it early. They did get off to a fast start on Long Island and will need to do the same tonight. The difference is, no letting their foot off the Rangers' throats this time, like they did with the Isles.

While no one was expecting a goaltenders' duel Monday night, we can expect to see one tonight. The Rangers Henrik Lundqvist is one of the big reasons the Rangers are off to such a great start. And we all know what Roberto Luongo has been up to recently, so this one could be a real treat for those who love those highlight reel saves. While Naslund has been off to a great start in the Big Apple, their top player right now is Nikolai Zherdev, who is leading the team in nearly all offensive catagories. He really seems to be adjusting to life in the Big City after languishing in obscurity in Columbus. Despite the Rangers record, and the Canucks road woes, this game is winnable. Here's what the Canucks need to do to take the 2 points tonight:

1- Quick start: As mentioned, the Canucks must establish a lead quickly. It always helps when the road team gets a good start, and especially in a hostile environment like MSG, getting the fans out of it early and then ensuring that they keep sustained pressure, with lots of shots and cycling in the Rangers end, they will have success. The best defense is a good offense, and not allowing the Rangers the puck certainly will do the trick.

2- Physicality: The Rangers are big, fast and strong. So are the Canucks. So Darcy Hordichuk may be called upon tonight to take matters (read Colton Orr) into his own hands tonight. Hordi hasn't had to scrap too often thus far, but has been impressive when needed. So expect some fists to fly in this one.

3- Prevent Nazzy from having a huge game, but...: Don't lose sight of the other weapons. Obviously the Canucks will spend some of the night with Ryan Kesler and his line all over Naslund, but the Rangers have a number of weapons that can hurt you, so they will need to be on top of their defensive game tonight.

This one is gonna be a beaut, there is no doubt. And should they win, there is no time for celebration as they will board a plane for Minneapolis immediately after the game. The schedule makers for the NHL really need to examine how anyone could consider this road trip in particular, acceptable. Anyways, complete post game wrap up tomorrow, along with a preview of a huge divisional showdown against Minny.