Ducks' Bieksa set to face former Canucks teammates
After spending the first decade of his NHL career in a Vancouver Canucks uniform, Kevin Bieksa will be up against his former teammates in his second game with the Anaheim Ducks on Monday night.
"It'll be a little different but it's business for them and us," Bieksa told reporters. "We'll talk after - maybe."
The 34-year-old went on to chat with his old teammates hours before puck drop.
Old friends catch up before lining up on opposite sides of the ice tonight. pic.twitter.com/ezMXxxB4KV
— Vancouver Canucks (@VanCanucks) October 12, 2015
Bieksa played almost 25 minutes in the Ducks' season-opening loss to the San Jose Sharks, after averaging about 20 minutes per game beside Luca Sbisa last season.
"I think we had a good run," Sbisa said of his former defense partner. "There were a couple of tough games, but overall it was good."
Meanwhile, winger Alex Burrows - who broke into the Canucks' lineup with Bieksa in the 2005-06 season - is excited to play against his longtime teammate Sunday.
"It will be fun to battle with him in the corners," Burrows said. "I'm sure there will be a few smiles!"
Monday's game begins at 10 p.m. ET.