Game Day: Thrashers at Canucks

"I am really surprised at what is happening right now," Vigneault said after the Canucks practised at General Motors Place. "This group has really been consistent in their preparation and work ethic and that's all about being a professional. For us to get two types of efforts like we did in Calgary and the way we did against Chicago is not what this group is all about and it's a surprise to me."

Vigneault has shared his opinions with his players and hopes Wednesday night's 3-0 loss to the Blackhawks will help shake the team out of its doldrums. He suggested it's time for his players to prove out on the ice that they really do want to make the playoffs.

"Words are one thing," he said. "You can say you want to be in the playoffs and you want to get there, but the real proof is in the actions and how you perform on the ice; that sense of urgency. That is what we need to see.

"Our actions on the ice in two of the three last games have not been what they needed to be. I think they are aware of it and I think they understand, but I will tell after tomorrow night if they really understand because their actions are going to have to prove it."

• Abbotsford native, Brad Moran, was called up yesterday and will make his Canucks debut tonight. He will replace Jan Bulis, who has a bruised shoulder. - Brad Ziemer (Vancouver Sun)
• The Canucks also recalled Brandon Reid from the Manitoba Moose. - canucks.com
• Busy day yesterday. The Canucks sent Rick Rypien back to the Moose as well. I'm sure we'll see him back here soon enough. - canucks.com
• Alex Burrows and Josh Green would like their scoring touch back. And a Diet Pepsi. - Iain MacIntyre (Vancouver Sun)