AS GHERSON GOES, SO DO CANES

Carolina

The Hurricanes took on the Vancouver Canucks and stood strong as the Canes defeated the favoured western team 4-1. Scoring for the Canes were Shane Doan, Alexei Kovalev, Oleg Tverdvsky, and Mike Fisher.

"We did some line changes this game," said head coach Joel Quenneville. "I felt our lines had been underachieving lately and we really needed a spark of some sort. We had some tough practices after the Florida game and felt that this was a key effort. I wanted the team to come out strong and they replied."

Of note, the Canes also went with rookie goaltender Robert Gherson, the youngster who is making his first professional regular season start. Gherson, 22, was a direct callup from junior and will spend no time in the AHL.

"Robby has really stepped into the spotlight and essentially turned some heads. He is steady back there and I think the guys respond well to him."

The Canucks fired 27 shots on net as Gherson stopped all but 1 of them.

"I was told yesterday I was going in," said Gherson. "Coach asked if I was ready and I told him to put me in. I want o play every game but at the same time, I am not cocky enough to think I am better than Jose. He is the team's guy and I just want an opportunity to show I can give them a second option."

Assistant captain Jay McKee echoed many of his team mates comments.

"We feel quite comfortable with him back there," said the hard nosed defenceman. "He is a lot more vocal than most young goalies are. I think he feels he can call the show and it works for me. If he says something I don't like, you can bet I will let him know. Fact is though, the kid has confidence to say what he feels and that is good enough for me."

The Canes will look to steal a couple points from the conference rivals in the New York Rangers. Look for Jose Theodore to get the start.

Scott Niedermayer and Alexei Kovalev both left the game and are doubtful for the Rangers contest.