The other day, I ended up talking hockey with someone I had just met.
“Man, I haven’t watched the Canucks since 2011,” the fellow told me.
I think that’s a common refrain around Vancouver nowadays.
Although the memories of downtown Vancouver being packed with Canucks fans feel fresh, those memories are overshadowed by the fact that this team has won one measly playoff series since 2011.
And, as you know, that one playoff series victory came in front of no fans.
It’s been far too long since the Canucks have been relevant. Yes, that lack of relevance has to be attributed to Jim Benning for his flawed approach at building a hockey team, and Francesco Aquilini for his lack of leadership at the top of the food chain.