Bodog Beat

Roberto Luongo and the Canucks take on the Blackhawks in Vancouver for game 2 of the series on Saturday. (AP Images)

Well this series is off to a physical start.

Kyle Wellwood had two assists, drew five power plays, lost one tooth and chipped another in Vancouver’s 5-3 series-opening victory over the Chicago Blackhawks on Thursday night.

Pavol Demitra scored on the power play, and Henrik Sedin and Ryan Kesler added even-strength goals for Vancouver, who is 16-1-1 at home since February.

Game 2 of the Western Conference semifinal series is Saturday night in Vancouver.

The Hawks took too many penalties in Game 1, which included two double-minors for high-sticking. That has to change if the Hawks are going to make a run to the Western Conference final.

At least the Blackhawks are not in awe of Canucks goaltender Roberto Luongo after scoring three times on him in the third period.

Vancouver is pegged as a -135 favorite to win the series.

Check out the Bodog Sportsbook for the best in NHL playoff odds.