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Canucks could use situation as motivator

Q. In your opinion, what is the mind-set of Vancouver right now?

A. I’d have to be in the room to get a real pulse of what’s going on, but maybe this is the best thing for Vancouver. Just kind of, “OK, we’ve put ourselves in this position, it’s just down to one game. Let’s give it everything we’ve got.” Maybe it’s just mental relief that they are in this game and it’s winner take all.

But on the flip side, their confidence level is probably not where they’d hope it would be.

Q. How much do you think Alain Vigneault’s decision to start Cory Schneider in goal in Game 6 messed with Roberto Luongo’s head?

A. Luongo has been around a long time. I’m sure he was as disappointed as anyone at not starting Sunday, but at the same time he’s a good teammate and probably supported Schneider as much as possible and wanted him to win.

Q. Finish this sentence: The Blackhawks will move on to the Western Conference semifinals if …

A. If they’re smart with the puck. I didn’t think their puck management in Game 6 was very good. You can’t give Vancouver that many opportunities.

You know now that the effort for both teams is going to be at the highest possible level, so it comes down to which team manages the puck better. One turnover, one bad decision could make the difference in the game.

ŸTroy Murray is now in his 11th season as a member of the Blackhawks broadcast team. The Selke Award winner was a five-time 20-goal scorer and a veteran of 15 years in the NHL, playing in 915 career games.