The Canucks begin a three-game road trip tonight in Phoenix against a Coyotes team that is struggling almost as much as they are.

 The Canucks have won just 4 of their last 12 games, while the Coyotes went winless on their recent four-game road trip and were shutout in three of the four games.

 The Canucks will go with Cory Schneider in goal, and will have minor league call up Andrew Gordon in the lineup as a replacement for forward Steve Pinozotto, who didn't make the trip with the team, along with Zack Kassian.

 Gordon will wear Todd Bertuzzi's old no. 44.  He has scored 16 goals and 26 points in 47 games with the Chicago Wolves this season.

 Chris Higgins has also joined the list of walking wounded with a bad back.  That means a defenceman will have to move up and take his spot. 

 Puck drop from Phoenix tonight is scheduled for just after 7 o'clock.