New Era Off to the Right Start

If you looked up at the Suites in Rogers Arena you could find the Canucks Management watching the first game under new management. Every shot, every hit and every goal brought a reaction to the new GM. It was a new experience for the media who is usually used to stoic GM's were chuckling amongst themselves as GMGM watched the game. When Ryan O'Reilly scored a short handed goal to put the game away, many people nearby claimed they went deaf for a few minutes. After the game, GMGM was sought out for part of the press conference.

"Win or lose, this game was not going to be the end of this new era in Vancouver. However, I would be lying if I didn't admit just how happy I am with the result. These players have been struggling a bit so seeing them come out and pull off this win makes me happy. It's important to the players too."

Coach Jon Cooper also got in on the post-game press conference.

"One of the best games I've seen fom the team this season. When new management was brought in, it was crucial to sit down and come up with a gameplan. We spent hours going over the roster, line ups and strategies. Then we talked to the players. After that came practice. A lot of changes were made so it was a risk that the players might not gel with all the line up changes made. Thankfully we have a Top 10 goalie and a great defense."

Ryan O'Reilly was the first star of the game putting up 2 goals, including the game winning goal and the clincher shorthanded.

"Felt like we had new legs under us. Cooper and GMGM challenged us. Challenged me as well. It feels good to win and we know we have to win a lot more games. Right now the focus is just one game at a time."