There was some concern that Kevin Bieksa wouldn’t be ready for the Vancouver Canucks in their season opener against the Calgary Flames on Wednesday.
Well, no concern anymore.
The Canucks just announced the veteran defenseman will be in the lineup, while utility blue liner Yannick Weber will be scratched.
THIS JUST IN: Bieksa in, Weber out. #Canucks
— Vancouver Canucks (@Canucks) October 9, 2014
Bieksa injured himself in the second to last pre-season game, trying to throw a hit on an Edmonton Oilers player, who ducked at the last second, sending Bieksa hard into the boards.
Bieksa had been a game-time decision for the Canucks. It is the first game of 82 on the season, so there was also talk that perhaps sitting out this game with the long-term future in mind could be the better option.
“Lucky to have a great training staff behind me that will take all my feedback and help me make the right decision,” said Bieksa on Tuesday, before the Canucks departed for Calgary.
“Well you want to play on opening day. I’d definitely like to play. But you also have to be smart. Playing one game and then sitting four or five is not very smart and not good for the team.”
For the Flames, Sean Monahan (flu) will play tonight, as well.
.@Monahan20 is in! The scratches tonight are: Setoguchi, Jones, Diaz. #CGYvsVAN
— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) October 9, 2014