Mike Gillis on Canucks Goaltending and Kesler Health

Canucks GM Mike Gillis joined TEAM1040 on Thursday afternoon, after his team beat Colorado 3-0, and a day ahead of a rivalry matchup with Chicago (7:00 faceoff Friday on TEAM1040).

Roberto Luongo will get the start against the Blackhawks, leading to plenty of talk in Vancouver about the Canucks goaltending situation. Both Gillis and Alain Vigneault simply say that, in a shortened season, they have to start the goalie who’s playing better.

But the situation has led to questions about that much-discussed trade of Roberto Luongo – whether his recent play helps the situation, or whether it opens the possibility of Cory Schneider being moved instead.

Gillis – would you trade Schneider  “Would I consider trading Cory Schneider or anyone else off our team? Would it make us a better team? Would it give us a better opportunity to win?  I would look at trading anyone on this team, but Cory’s a great young player for us and it isn’t something that I’ve been thinking about, have thought of, or considered.”

Mike Gillis – would you trade Schneider

Gillis – are GMs phoning about Schneider  “Most guys who are GMs aren’t as reactionary as you guys. They don’t think that. No one is picking up the phone all of a sudden because Roberto has played a couple of good games. I mean, what would you expect Roberto to do? He’s a world-class goalie, of course he’s going to play well. I think everyone in this business – no one needs to be reminded of his credentials or his ability.”

Mike Gillis – are other GMs phoning about Schneider

Gillis also said Ryan Kesler continues his slow recovery from offseason hip and wrist surgeries, with no hurry to rush him into the lineup.  He also confirmed thoughts that Eddie Lack’s hip surgery does not affect any potential goalie trade this season, as Lack was slated to play the full season in the AHL.

Hear the full Gillis interview below:

Mike_Gillis_with_Sekeres_and_Price_Jan31st

Roberto Luongo Jan 31

Cory Schneider Jan 31

Trevor Linden joined Matt Sekeres on Thursday afternoon, and shared some thoughts on the Canucks goaltending:

Trevor Linden – on goalie situation