Stalled Engines: Time to see a Mechanic?

Alright, so they didn’t get off to the start many observers were hoping, the Vancouver Canucks’ 0-3 record has some of fans worrying. Their present record isn’t indicative of the talent they dress night in and night out.  Why are the Vancouver Canucks 0-3 then?  I think it’s just a matter of “new car” syndrome.

Needless to say, after the loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets, there are people in Vancouver wanting to make some changes. Some are calling for some heads, and generally getting off the Canucks bandwagon.  But why? Well, because at three games in, there are some out there who believe that the Canucks will now go 0-82.  Let’s not kid ourselves Canucks fans, we’re famous for our ‘wagon’ and whether we like to admit it or not, we’ve all fallen off at least once. I know I did, just take me back to 1998, enough said.

I just finished listening to the TEAM1040 online, and everyone this morning was calling for Roberto Luongo’s head.  Didn’t they know that Luongo is traditionally a slow starter?  Didn’t they know it takes a few games for Bobby Lu to get his groove back? His October record in his career is speaks for itself.  Sure he let in three goals on three shots in the second period. Two of which he should have stopped, but as we all know, he didn’t.  It is ok, I still believe he’s one of the best goalies in the world, and I still want him as our starter in Lotus Land. Are the fans calling for Roberto’s head telling me they are ready to hand over the reins to Andrew Raycroft? Ok, that’s what I thought.

There were some positive notes from the latest loss. Some presence of run and gun hockey that we have lacked the last few years was there. There were also some odd man rushes.  The defence having a good night with shots on goal and some really good scoring chances.  Despite the losing 5-3, the Canucks peppered Columbus goaltender Steve Mason with 43 shots. They are getting chances, just not finishing. That will come when the lines are gelled a little more.

So what do we do now?  Do we start asking for trades? Do we send a message to the guys that aren’t performing? No it’s simple, we wait.  Like a new car, it takes some time to work out the kinks of the car before it is ‘street ready’.  Right now, I feel the Canucks are that new car that needs to work out the kinks and see what buttons operates what.  So to those fans that are ready to get off the ride, I suggest you stay on.  It’s early, lots of time and room for improvement.  I’m sure by month’s end, the Canucks will be taking off from the start line like a finely tuned machine.  So sit down, buckle up and enjoy the ride. I warn you now, it’s 82 games long and it’s bumpy at times.