from Ian MacIntyre of the Vancouver Sun,

... while proving through the first half of the season they can compete, they also have proved there is a significant gap between themselves and the top teams in their division — the Los Angeles Kings, Anaheim Ducks and San Jose Sharks.

They are 1-for-11 against California, so outmatched some nights that a spirited, noble 1-0 loss Monday against the Kings was celebrated and caused enough self-satisfaction the Canucks barely showed up two nights later against the Ducks.

And while the Canucks have been able to beat the twin titans of the Central Division, the Chicago Blackhawks and St. Louis Blues, do you really think from what you’ve seen that Vancouver has a realistic chance to beat one of those teams four times in seven games?

No, as it stands, the conference has a fabulous five teams, and a group of good-but-not-great teams trying to stay with them. The Canucks are part of this second tier, the middle class of the superior Western Conference.

Unlike the seasons they were winning Presidents’ Trophies, the Canucks aren’t just one good trade or addition away from winning a Cup.

more