Seriously. After Malhotra initially injured his eye, concerns were raised that his career might be over and that he might never regain vision in his left eye. When he skated in practices, hopes were raised but tempered by the fact that he wasn’t participating in any contact or taking regular line rushes. Coaches, players, and management constantly clarified that his presence was simply indicative of how close the team is and how important Manny is to the team, and not an indication that he would be able to return to game action at any point in the playoffs.
This news changes everything. Where before he seemed to be taking the role of an inspirational mentor, almost a go-between for the players and coaches, his return to full practice indicates that he could play as early as Wednesday, Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final. If he does indeed return, it would be one of the most incredible stories of the Canucks season, even if he only played minimal minutes in a fourth-line role. To return from that kind of horrific injury should pluck every heartstring and bring a tear to the eye of every hockey fan. This is what Disney sports movies are made from.
It’s no longer just “Win it for Manny.” It’s “Win it With Manny.”
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Dave
May 27, 2011I, for one, will be cheering my head off if he walks on the ice in Game 1
beninvictoria
May 27, 2011My goodness……think of the noise if he comes back….
We all secretly hoped for it but were too afraid to say it out loud. Congratulations Manny, I’m just glad you’re ok.
peanutflower
May 27, 2011oh my god. If I were Boston or Tampa I would just surrender right now. Manny’s rustiness aside, this is too inspirational for anyone to overcome.
PetriSkriko
May 27, 2011Ohmygod, ohmygod… I need a brown paper bag over here.
Marda
May 27, 2011This is the best news and even though his projected return is not yet certain, it could not have come at a better time. It really would be like the cherry on top of the best cake in the world.
shoes
May 27, 2011Given the fact that in the Tampa/Boston series each team that has won the faceoff battle each night has won the game……….it would be huge if Manny was back and effective on the draw.
BUT the news that he is “better” ahead of schedule is so monumental for him, his family and the Canuck family that I find myself at a loss for words.
Truly wonderful news.
J21
May 27, 2011The beautiful thing about how well Lapierre has played is that it allows Malhotra to take Hodgson’s 4C place rather than go back to 3C.
Vigneault only plays his fourth line for 4-6 minutes a game — I’m sure an out-of-shape Malhotra could handle that and a few faceoffs, so you don’t even have to worry about thrusting Malhotra in too deep or disrupting chemistry, etc.
I’d personally prefer that Glass be the one to come out, but if Vigneault can’t even see that his lineup is better with Tambellini and/or Oreskovich there, I’m sure he won’t bump Cody ahead of Glass on the depth chart.
Karen
May 27, 2011When Manny was cleared to skate with the team, I dared to hope… but didn’t want to assume. This is excellent news! Especially after the 4th line was stapled to the bench after the 2nd period in game 5 vs. San Jose. Would be good if we could depend on them for more than that… and if Manny replaces Hodgson at centre, we could be well on our way!
rhonda
May 28, 2011Congratulations are being sent out to you Manny on your miracle recovery. You are an inspiration to all whether they are sports related or not.
The Canucks staff and team have been waiting for this break through. I believe that the success of the playoffs have been there for many reasons but one is for the chance to let Manny be part of the joy of winning the games and sharing the Stanley Cup with the rest of the boys.
Manny you are courage and strong in how you have handled this challenge and to see this through as you only you can to experience the playoffs through the final stretch to VICTORY.
Rhonda
Courtenay BC