The Canucks have recalled right-winger Sergei Shirokov from Manitoba in his place.
Shirokov leads the Moose in both goals and assists this season (16-17-33) and has recently improved his defensive play, demonstrated by a plus-10 rating through the first 39 games of the season.
“He’s checking way better,” Noel said. “Through his checking and defending he’s getting opportunities to score, which is what we’ve talked about since day one with him.”
Vancouver drafted Shirokov in the 6th round of the 2004 draft, a pick acquired from the Florida Panthers in the Roberto Luongo trade.
Shirokov impressed Canucks fans during the 2009-10 preseason, leading the team in scoring with seven points in four games and making the regular season opening night roster.
Before his call up, the 24 year-old Shirokov was on quite a streak with the Moose, registering points in 12 straight games.
He was recently named to the AHL all-star team for the 2nd year in a row.
No word yet on whether Shirokov will play against the Colorado Avalanche tomorrow night.