The Forgotten Man

Pavol Demitra, who many had written off for the season, is inching closer to a return to the Vancouver Canucks lineup. Demitra tore a rotator cuff in his shoulder in last seasons playoff series against the Chicago Blackhawks when he went to hit Brian Campbell. He then suffered a set back early this year before he was able to return. Things are finally falling into place for the 35 year old as he re-joined the Canucks in practice and looks to be one or two weeks away from getting in some game action.

The question now boils down to who will he replace. The Canucks have been playing strong lately compiling a 7-2-1 record in their last ten games. The top unit of the Sedins and Burrows has been on fire with Henrik earning first star honors for the month of December. The second line of Kesler, Raymond and Samuelsson has been clicking as well. With both of the top units looking solid, it leaves the third and fourth line. Ryan Johnson was placed on long term injured reserve with a fracture in his foot so Demitra may find a home on the third line alongside Bernier and Wellwood.

It's not all good news on the injury front, however, as Kevin Bieksa suffered lacerated tendons in his foot after being cut by Petr Prucha's skate. The injury will sideline the defender for 2 to 3 months. Disgruntled veteran Mathieu Schneider was sent to the Manitoba Moose and Brad Lukowich called up. Also, as previously mentioned, Ryan Johnson will be out indefinitely with a fractured foot.