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Vancouver Canucks SuperFan Page
Saturday 17 October 1998
GAME PREVIEW
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Toronto Maple Leafs at Vancouver Canucks
Time and Location: Saturday 17 October 1998 7:00PM PST at GM Place, Vancouver
TEAM RECORDS
Vancouver Canucks (1-1-0); lost their last game against Edmonton 4-1
Toronto Maple Leafs (3-0-0); won their last game against Calgary 7-3
OVERVIEW
The Canucks are playing their last game at home before going on the road. Toronto has come out of the gates strong this season, and also had a spectacular preseason, making them a surprising force early. The big story is the return of Pat Quinn, who was fired last season creating a lot of the turmoil the Canucks suffered last year. The Canucks will have to come out big. And there's no reason that they won't. Vancouver in the past has usually come out for the big games, especially at home, and the Canucks must consider this game a big one. This will likely be a great tilt, since both teams have their pride on the line. Once again, Vancouver captain Mark Messier will have to play better and Todd Bertuzzi will have to convert some of his flash to points on the scoreboard. If Messier is on the ball, Mogilny will likely break out as well. The last few games Mogilny appears held back by the poor play of Messier, and if the trend continues, Messier may well have to be put back in the lineup - if that's even possible. Toronto just recently acquired Alex Karpotsev and a third round pick for Mattheu Schneider from the Rangers, so he'll be a player to watch. Mats Sundin is always dangerous, and has played well so far in the season. One of last years rookie sensations Mike Johnson will also be dangerous. Trade-bait Felix Potvin is rumoured to be the starter in tonight's game - perhaps they're showcasing him?
STREAKS
The Leafs are on a three game winning streak. The Canucks are on a one game losing streak.
THINGS TO WATCH FOR
1. Mark Messier - is he finally going to play at the NHL level?
2. Alexander Mogilny to start making dents on the scoreboard.
3. A high scoring, high paced game.
SUPERFAN PREDICTION
This one will be a great game, with both teams coming out to play. Have to say, though - Toronto may be just to hot for even a good effort to overcome.
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