Canucks Aim to Keep Momentum Rolling Against the Sharks
Alright, let’s dive into this afternoon’s matchup between the Vancouver Canucks and the San Jose Sharks — a game that arrives with both teams trying to steer their seasons in a steadier direction. Vancouver comes in with a 10–12–2 record, making their second stop on a four-game road trip, and they’re hoping to build on the energy from their 5–4 win over the Anaheim Ducks earlier this week. That game wasn’t exactly the defensive clinic fans are used to seeing, but it was a reminder that this team can generate offense when they fully commit to it.
In fact, the Canucks put up 37 scoring chances in that Anaheim game, which is something they rarely do. Since early October, that level of offensive push has only shown up three times, and each of those matchups — against Colorado, Dallas, and Chicago — turned into wild, high-event battles. So now the big question is whether that same spark can be carried into today’s matchup in San Jose.
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The Sharks, meanwhile, are walking in with an 11–10–3 record and the sting of a brutal 6–0 loss to the Avalanche still fresh. They’ve been one of the lowest-shooting teams in the league, averaging just over 24 shots per game and surpassing the 40-shot mark only once this season. That stat alone sets the stage for Vancouver: if San Jose struggles to produce chances, this is a prime opportunity for the Canucks to take control early by simply out-working and out-shooting them.
Both teams are juggling some lineup uncertainty. Vancouver’s goaltending situation is still a bit messy, with Thatcher Demko on the trip but not yet fully back in the mix, while Kevin Lankinen didn’t travel due to personal reasons. The Sharks are hoping to get Jeff Skinner and Michael Misa back in practice next week, though neither will dress today.
One player to keep an eye on for Vancouver is Arshdeep Bains. He didn’t hit the scoresheet against the Ducks, but his return to the lineup made a noticeable difference in terms of forechecking pressure and offensive flow. If he slots in beside new linemates today, he could help spark some unexpected chemistry. And, of course, the spotlight naturally swings to Sharks star Macklin Celebrini — a North Vancouver native who’s not only leading San Jose in points but is also tied for second in the entire NHL. His combination of speed, confidence, and creativity continues to exceed every expectation placed on him.
With both teams scheduled to play again tomorrow, goaltending choices and bench management will matter more than ever. Vancouver faces the Kings next, while San Jose heads to Las Vegas, so neither side can afford to empty the tank completely. Still, this afternoon’s meeting sets up nicely for Vancouver if they can replicate their recent offensive rhythm — and if San Jose can’t shake off the remnants of that blowout loss.
It should be a fun, fast, and unpredictable one. Let’s see which version of each team shows up.
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