He likely wouldn't be the fans' choice to replace Higgins and start the year in Vancouver, but what do Jimbo and Willie think?
When Chris Higgins went down with a fractured foot in the first game of this year's pre-season, part of the fan base actually got a little excited. As far as injuries go, this one was quite convenient. The temporary loss of Higgins meant another spot available in the Canucks middle six, a spot which most would assume would go to one of the organization's budding prospects. At the time, the rookies leading the race were Jared McCann, Brendan Gaunce, and Jake Virtanen - and all of them are still in the mix today - but on the day of the penultimate pre-season game, one veteran remains on the NHL roster who everyone thought was bound for Utica.