5 NHL questions: Vancouver looking for answers in goal

The Canucks are looking to get good play from their goalies, while Jeff Skinner looks to continue scoring goals.

Jan 10, 2014, 4:57 PM UTC

Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Spor

1. Will Nathan MacKinnon keep skating circles around everyone?

We knew the top overall pick in 2013 was good. We just didn’t know he was this good. That was MacKinnon’s 15th goal of the year and his eighth goal in his last nine games. Another huge game on Saturday would further solidify his campaign for the Calder Trophy. 2. Can the Penguins just slow down for once?

As one of the league’s elite teams, you’d think Pittsburgh would know how to play simple, effective hockey every once and awhile. However, their tendency to go for the flashy play resulted in an overtime loss in Edmonton on Friday and drew ire from one of their veterans. Expect more reasonable play from the likes of Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin in Calgary.

3.Can the Bruins and Red Wings topple the California elite?
Only six teams have beaten the three California teams out West this season. Boston and Detroit will try to make it eight on Saturday, but it won’t be easy. Both are coming off losses in the G

4. Will John Tavares record three or more points?

The Islanders superstar seems like he gets better every night. And after an affirmation of his talent from Hockey Canada, Tavares went out and racked up three assists against the Maple Leafs. In his last two games, Tavares has put up at least three points (for a total of three goals and five assists). The Islanders will travel to Colorado Friday to try to solve the Avalanche.

5. Can the Rangers continue to dominate third periods?

The Rangers are coming off a big win against the Blackhawks in which they entered the third period tied before netting the game-winner. A nifty stat via Pat Leonard of the Daily News shows that during the Rangers’ recent 6-2-1 stretch, they’ve outscored opponents 11-4 in third periods, while playing the other two periods even. The Rangers begin a four-game homestand Friday night versus Dallas, a team New York beat earlier this season after going into the third period with a tie score.