Canucks Aim for Redemption Against Kraken After OT Heartbreaker
The Vancouver Canucks face off against the Seattle Kraken tonight in what promises to be another intense chapter in their heated rivalry. This game marks the second of four meetings between the two teams this season, following the Canucks’ dramatic 5-4 overtime loss to the Kraken on December 28. The series continues with two more encounters set for March and April, and both teams will be eager to secure crucial points.
The Canucks have an impressive overall record against Seattle, with a 7-4-1 all-time mark, including a solid 4-2-0 record when playing on the road. However, Vancouver has struggled in recent matchups, going 1-3-1 in the last five games against the Kraken. That includes the heartbreaking overtime loss just days ago, where the Canucks built a 4-1 lead before Seattle stormed back with three unanswered goals in the third period. Vince Dunn scored the overtime winner to seal the comeback.
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Key players for the Canucks have shown their worth, with Conor Garland leading all current Canucks in points against Seattle, totaling 13 points (5 goals, 8 assists) in 12 career games. J.T. Miller has also been a consistent contributor, recording 12 points (3 goals, 9 assists) in 11 games against the Kraken. Brock Boeser, who scored twice in the last meeting, has five points in his last four games, and is clearly a player to watch tonight.
In goal, Thatcher Demko has been a reliable presence for Vancouver, with a 5-2-1 record, a 3.02 goals-against average, and a .898 save percentage in his career against Seattle. Kevin Lankinen, on the other hand, has had limited action against the Kraken but boasts a respectable 0.954 save percentage in his two appearances.
Looking ahead, the Canucks will need to tighten their defensive play to prevent another collapse like in the previous encounter. The Kraken have been resilient, and with players like Matty Beniers and Jaden Schwartz showing offensive prowess, the Canucks can’t afford to relax, especially with the game on the road.
Both teams have struggled with consistency in recent games. Vancouver will be eager to bounce back from their 3-1 loss to Calgary on December 31, where they failed to capitalize on a solid performance from Boeser, who scored their only goal. The Canucks will also need more contributions from other offensive weapons such as Jake DeBrusk, who has been on a hot streak with 16 goals since November 2, and Quinn Hughes, who continues to impress with his elite playmaking ability.
With the playoff race heating up, every point counts for the Canucks as they look to keep their momentum and build on a solid start to the season. For the Kraken, this game represents another chance to assert themselves as serious contenders in the Pacific Division. Fans can expect a thrilling matchup, as both teams battle not only for points but also for regional bragging rights in what has become one of the most exciting rivalries in the NHL.
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