GIF: Canucks G Eddie Lack stones Blackhawks F Ben Smith

With the Canucks playing their second of back-to-back games on Friday night in Chicago, Vancouver turned to backup netminder Eddie Lack between the pipes. Through 40 minutes Lack held his team in the game, especially with his steady play in an impressive 9 save first period.

In the second period Lack made a rather astonishing stop on Blackhawks forward Ben Smith. Smith displayed excellent patience, undressing Dan Hamhuis and cutting across the crease. But the 6,5 rookie goaltender stretched out and absolutely robbed the Blackhawks winger with his elongated left leg:

[Courtesy TSN]

Starting against the Blackhawks in a nationally televised game, and playing well, might help Lack capture the attention of some in the hockey world. But his attitude and work-ethic had already been noted by Canucks head coach John Tortorella: