Just another Vannie preseason loss.

Is it time for Canuck fans to push the preseason panic button now that we've fallen to 0-3? God, I hope not, because it would be really annoying. Nevertheless, a 2-3 loss at home to Edmonton seems to be striking some kind of fear into the heart of Orca Nation, but hopefully I can quiet the alarms.

First off, the CDC (Canucks Dot Com) summary of the match called the fans in attendance "shagadellic," in an effort to refer to the 80's night theme at Rogers Arena. Um, that's horrible. Didn't anyone proof read? The 80's had nothing to do with Austin Powers, you weird Canadians. 

After falling behind early, 0-2, the 'Nucks came marching back in the third with goals from Daniel Sedin (on the advantage) and prospect Peter Schaefer, but the Oilers won the game on a third goal with about 7 minutes left. It was nice to see the never say die attitude in the preseason, but it's always tough to cough up a game winner after rocking the comeback attempt.

The big news, to me, was the top line. Daniel and Henrik skated along Sergei Shirokov, and they put some big time shots up on the board. Obviously, Shirokov will look good with the Twins, as anyone would, but does running him out there with them show that Coachie V is going to give him another shot to impress in October? I hope so, because I really like the guy.

Mason, Kesler, and Samuelsson were special as a second line, despite not netting a goal. They are really fun to watch. Schaefer getting a goal was crazy, his first in a 'Nucks uniform since 2001 (he's here on a try out), and if he made the team, it would be some big story.

In net, Bobby Lu allowed the first two Oil goals on 25 shots before Schneider came in for relief in the third, allowing the eventual game winner. After the game, Luongo commented on how he was just getting a feel for the game again, and doesn't put too much stock into the goals allowed in his first preseason game. Good, I'll try and do the same.

Also, props to defensive hopeful Andrew Alberts, who led the team with six big hits. Keep it up, Double-A.

All in all, it was a loss, and we are 0-3, but it's all going to be okay.

The issue still bothering the Canucks, at least in the media's eyes, is the lack of a captain since Luongo gave it up/was asked to give it up. CDC reports that the choice is now down to Henrik, Daniel, and Kesler. I'll go on the record saying Hank should get it this year. He had one of the greatest seasons of all time for us last year, and he deserves to be the leader. Daniel, Kesler, and Edler should rock the "A." 

Next up is a match at home on Saturday against the formerly Mighty Ducks of Anaheim. Getting our first preseason win against the Ducks would easily make me forget about the first three losses. Easily.

Attack the quack. Go Canucks Go.

I know it's just preseason, but I'm so glad hockey is back.

-- Sent from my Palm Prē