Welcome to this edition of THN's Vancouver Canucks 2024-25 Report Card. This recurring 2025 off-season series features a deep dive into how each Canucks player performed last year. Today's article will focus on goaltender Kevin Lankinen, who finished the season with 25 wins in 51 games.
The best way to describe Lankinen's 2024-25 season was chaotic. He signed with Vancouver at the end of training camp, became the team starter and midway through the season, signed a five-year extension with the organization. Lankinen was also part of Team Finland at the 4 Nations Face-Off and etched himself into the record books by becoming the first goalie in NHL history to win their first ten road games to start a season.
When Lankinen signed with the Canucks, the thought was that he would be the backup to Artūrs Šilovs. After the now Pittsburgh Penguins goaltender struggled, the 30-year-old was able to step in and become Vancouver's starting goaltender. In the end, the decision to run with Lankinen paid off as he went 7-0-2 in his first nine games of the season.
How Everyday Practice Habits Help Canucks Kevin Lankinen Prepare For Shootouts
Vancouver Canucks goaltender Kevin Lankinen discusses how he prepares for when games go to a shootout.
For the most part, Lankinen was able to hold the Canucks in games throughout the season. He made at least 30 saves 11 times, while posting a career high four shutouts. Lankinen also finished the 2024-25 campaign with a Wins Above Replacement of 2.4, which ranked 22nd among goaltenders in the league.
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As for Lankinen's counting stats, he set career highs in most categories. He made 1,213 saves while posting a Goals Against Average of 2.62. Lankinen also stopped 11 of 15 shots in the shootout and recorded an assist on the game-winning goal during Vancouver's 5-2 victory over the St. Louis Blues at the end of January.
Ultimately, it is safe to say that Lankinen exceeded expectations this year. He stepped up when the Canucks needed him the most and proved that he can be at least a 1B in the NHL. As for a letter grade, Lankinen deserves an B+ for his performance during the 2024-25 season.
Player Review Series Articles:
Thatcher Demko
Jake DeBrusk
Filip Hronek
Brock Boeser
Tyler Myers
Conor Garland
Elias Pettersson (F)
Quinn Hughes
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