"Struggling centre Ryan Kesler was a surprise no-show at the Vancouver Canucks' practice this morning.

Kesler crashed heavily into the boards during Wednesday's 5-1 loss to the Chicago Blackhawks and also has been bothered at times by lingering soreness after major hip surgery last July.

Canuck coach Alain Vigneault is expected to brief reporters later today on the status of Kesler and defenceman Keith Ballard, who also missed practice after leaving Wednesday's game with a back injury."