FIVE KEYS TO THE GAME
7:00 p.m., ROGERS ARENA TV: SNET PACIFIC; RADIO: SNET 650
How Horvat recovers 1 from Charley horse
Bo Horvat absorbed a Zack Kassian hit from behind in the third period Wednesday and took post-game treatment. Tanner Kero was recalled from the Utica Comets as a precautionary measure — and to get to a look at some point — but with Elias Pettersson still needing a full practice before he returns from a mild knee sprain, Horvat will again be a centre of attention.
Riding the Markstrom wave, 2 Demko waits
A rested Jacob Markstrom is a good Markstrom. The schedule has been advantageous for the starter to keep playing, although two games in three days — including a 1 p.m. start here Sunday against Detroit — might open the door for Thatcher Demko to see the net. Markstrom’s 2.80 goals-against average and .908 save percentage aren’t reflective of is ability to rebound from an early goal and keep his composure to keep the Canucks in games.
3 First PP must step up
Pettersson changes the even-strength and power-play dynamics and in the centre’s four-game absence, Josh Leivo wasn’t the latest answer. The Canucks ended an 0-for-12 funk with the man advantage over four games on Wednesday, but it was the second unit which managed to do the damage.
4 Granlund showing value
Markus Granlund is a pretty good bottom-six forward who can play the middle or wing. With goals in his last two games — and being the first shootout option as the only successful Canuck with two goals in three attempts — he’s now making more strides in a contract season for a shot at an extension.
5 Kero hits stride
If Horvat isn’t able to play Friday — and Pettersson more likely for Sunday following a full practice — Kero will draw in against the Sabres. After a poor training camp, the centre has 16 goals and 20 assists in 43 AHL games. Travis Green wants to get a better ready on him at some point.