Arshdeep Bains to make debut game on home arena

Surrey’s Arshdeep Bains will play his first home game for the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena on Saturday.

The 23-year-old left winger was recently called up to play for the Canucks after having made his debut in Colorado. In an interview with Sportsnet, he says he’s looking forward to playing on home ice, and he couldn’t have done it without his family.

“They’re the reason I play hockey. My dad loved hockey, they’ve supported me and my brothers and my sister since a young age. We all try to play hockey when we were just a little kid, so the fact that I could make it this far it’s everything to him,” Bains said.

“I remember when we were in the WHL and he said that this was his NHL, so the fact that I can make it all the way to the actual NHL just makes me so happy.”

Bains says the community support he’s receiving keeps him going.

“These last couple of days, I’ve seen a lot of support and it’s been really nice to see that there’s a big community behind me and kind of motivates me,” he said.

“It’s been worth all the effort that’s been put through and its special.”

Bains says this game will be special, it’ll be a great chance to go up against the Bruins considering their historic rivalry.

“It’s just another hockey game, but obviously there will definitely be some meaning behind that game and it’ll be pretty cool to be a a part of that game,” he said.

Canucks Head Coach Rick Tocchet says he’s been impressed with Bains so far, saying he’s going to “seize the moment.”

The Canucks take on the Boston Bruins at Rogers Arena Saturday at 4 o’clock.

With files from Cole Schisler.