Around the League: Mikael Samuelsson is the NHL's second star

Canucks forward Mikael Samuelsson was named the NHL’s second star last week, leading the NHL in scoring with six points (two goals, four assists) in three games.

Samuelsson recorded multiple points in each game, starting with one goal and one assist in a 4-1 victory over the Dallas Stars on Feb. 1. He recorded two assists in a 6-0 win over the Phoenix Coyotes Feb. 2 and finished the week by notching one goal and one assist in a 4-3 win over the Chicago Blackhawks Feb. 4. Skating in his second season with the Canucks, Samuelsson ranks fourth on the club in scoring with 33 points (11 goals, 22assists) in 52 games.

“Since we put him back with Ryan and Mason he’s been playing better, playing to his strengths and we need him to contribute, obviously he is a big part of our team and he knows that and it’s good to see that he is finding his stride right now,” said Coach Alain Vigneault.

Samuelsson too, was quick to credit his new line mates.

“Absolutely, we played a lot last year, so we have found some chemistry right away. I feel good about it”.

Samuelsson’s hot streak comes on the heels of a 14 game goalless stretch, but his teammates never worried about the much publicized mid-season slump.

“This is the time of year that he steps up, he did it last year too, he was unbelievable in the playoffs last year too, this is what we need from him,” said Captain Henrik Sedin.