Local NHL Standout Leads Canucks in Goals to Start Season

While last season didn’t end how Vancouver Canucks left winger and Smithtown native Chris Higgins wanted it to, , he’s starting the 2011-12 season strong, leading the team in goals.

Higgins has six goals in 12 games played, tied with seven other players in the league, according to NHL.com.

According to a The Vancouver Sun report, Canucks coach Alain Vigneault said Higgins’ consistency and work ethic is one of the team’s biggest assets.

“I would have to say that him and Max (Lapierre), within their role and what they bring to the table, have probably been our two most consistent forwards,” Vigneault told Sun. “Chris has really come to play hard at both ends, it doesn't matter where he is used or how he is used, he puts his best foot forward."

During the offseason the Canucks .

The Canucks are currently fourth in the Northwest division with a record of 6-5-1.

Click here to read the full The Vancouver Sun report.