Vancouver was held to one goal or fewer for the third time this season.
The Vancouver Canucks (20-9-2) had their four-game win streak snapped as they fell to the Minnesota Wild (12-12-4) in a shootout. Casey DeSmith was the story of the game for Vancouver as he made 30 saves plus two more in the shootout. In a game in which the Canucks could not generate any form of offence, they failed to score more than one goal for the first time since November 30.
Overall, this was a game the Canucks and their fans would like to forget. While Vancouver did finish the game with 36 shots on goal, they failed to generate significant scoring chances and made life easy on Filip Gustavsson. It was clear that the early start time affected both teams, as it was arguably the most boring game of the season.
As mentioned, the Canucks offence was not good, but the biggest concern was their power play. They failed to score on their five opportunities and even gave up a high-danger chance against. With three goals over their last eight games, it may be time for Vancouver to reevaluate their power play.
To end things off on a positive note, the Canucks did go perfect on the penalty kill. This was also the third straight game they did not allow a power play goal against. Whether it is the team taking fewer penalties or improved structure, it looks as though Vancouver's shorthanded units have found their groove, which will make them a stronger team down the stretch.
Stats and Facts
- Teddy Blueger has scored in both games versus Minnesota this season
- Quinn Hughes played over 28 minutes for the fifth time this season
- Elias Pettersson tied his season high with seven shots on net
- Canucks go perfect on the penalty kill for the third straight game
Game Summary
1st Period
MIN: 18:01- Frédérick Gaudreau (2nd) from Marcus Foligno and Patrick Maroon
2nd Period
VAN: 3:05- Teddy Blueger (3rd) from Dakota Joshua and Conor Garland
3rd Period
No Scoring
Overtime
No Scoring
Shootout
MIN: Mats Zuccarello
Canucks Next Opponent
The Canucks won't have to wait long to get back on the ice as they battle the Chicago Blackhawks on Sunday afternoon. The main focus of this game will be Connor Bedard, as the North Vancouver-born star plays his hometown team for the first time. Game time is set for noon PT from the United Center.