Option Jay

Even though I glorified Mason Raymond in my latest entry, I’m not completely blind to other offensive options for the Vancouver Canucks.

One of the main go-getters for the possible top six forward opening is 26-year-old Jason Jaffray.

The Rimbey, Alberta native scored 81 points in 77 games for the Manitoba Moose last year but was not recalled because he wasn’t under contract with the Canucks. However, Vancouver has him locked up now and he has a great shot at making it to the main team.

One things is for sure, he will get to play some regular season games. We just don’t know how many.

“That’s what training camp and the games are going to answer,” says Vigneault. “Jason has been on a consistent progression since he started with me in Manitoba. He had a really good year last year and has come to camp in great shape. He’s going to get a chance to play some games, and we’ll see from there.”

This right winger doesn’t lack in size at 6′1″, 205 lb. and proved that he doesn’t buckle under pressure as he tallied 13 playoff points, which was a team high. Jaffray will have to battle against some other rookies for a coveted NHL job, but so far, he just might have a leg up on the competition.

Vancouver has to use him effectively, which means third and fourth line duty won’t be good enough. Jaffray needs to be put in a scoring role, where he can be given the opportunity to truly show his talent.

Basically: Dear Canucks, don’t mess on this gem.

It’s highly probable the answer to Vancouver’s scoring woes lay right in front of the coaching staff eyes; and yes I’m talking about Jaffray.

Hosea C