- Jason Botchford of the Vancouver Province: Cody Hodgson plans on skating today, but he’s not closer to joining the Vancouver Canucks main camp as he hasn’t been cleared for contact. “I probably misspoke when I talked about it on the radio (last week), he has a bulging disc in his back. That’s been an ongoing injury,” GM Mike Gillis said. “In addition to that we’re informed by his agent and his family that he also had a slight muscle tear in his back that is now completely healed but there is still some tenderness in that area.” It’s possible that Hodgson misses the entire preseason, and surgery could be the final option if there isn’t improvement. There have been rumors of rift between Hodgson, his family, and the Canucks, but GM Mike Gillis says there is no problem that he’s aware of.
- Brad Ziemer of the Vancouver Sun: Canucks GM Mike Gillis and goalie Roberto Luongo will meet today, and it could end with Luongo giving up the team captaincy. It will be up to Luongo to give it up, but Gillis will offer his opinion on the situation.
“I think the expectations that go with that position or that title in a Canadian city can be a distraction,” Gillis said. “I will discuss it with him tomorrow and I will find out whether he feels the same way and get his thoughts on the process. . .If he feels it is a distraction or hinders his play in any way, I’m sure he will make a decision that is the best decision for the team first and for him second.
Rumor is that Henrik Sedin will take over as the Canucks captain shortly after Luongo gives it up.
- Jason Botchford of the Vancouver Province: With Hodgson likely out until October, Alex Burrows out until November, it’s the perfect opportunity for 19 year old Jordan Schroeder (22nd overall pick in the 2009 Draft).
