In a stunning display of resilience, the Vancouver Canucks have extended their winning streak to four games, culminating in a nail-biting 5-4 shootout victory over the Boston Bruins at TD Garden on December 20, 2025. This remarkable run has occurred entirely in the absence of their captain and star defenseman, Quinn Hughes.
A Wild Night in Boston
The victory defied conventional logic. Playing their second game in as many nights, on the road against a Stanley Cup contender, and still missing their top centre, the Canucks were significant underdogs. The game unfolded in chaotic fashion, with Vancouver falling behind twice, battling back to tie on both occasions, and ultimately prevailing in a tense seven-round shootout. Liam Ohgren scored the lone shootout goal, sealing the improbable win.
"This is why you play the game," could be the motto for this stretch. Despite being outshot by the Bruins and facing immense pressure, the Canucks found a way. The win, however, comes with a dose of reality for the team's long-term outlook. With this result, Vancouver remains 27th in the overall league standings, firmly in the conversation for a high draft lottery pick.
Player Grades: Heroes Emerge
While the team's top line had a quiet night, several depth players stepped up in a major way to fuel the comeback.
Linus Karlsson was a standout, earning top marks. He was instrumental on the forecheck leading to Max Sasson's goal and demonstrated perfect positioning to tip in the game-tying goal early in the third period. His recent surge is a testament to his growing confidence and understanding of his role.
Max Sasson, fresh off signing a new contract, ignited his team with a crucial goal when the Canucks were struggling to generate offense. His timely contribution underscored his value to the lineup.
Liam Ohgren continued his strong, direct play. He made a smart pass on Sasson's goal and delivered the decisive moment in the shootout, outwaiting Bruins goaltender Jeremy Swayman for the winner.
In net, Kevin Lankinen faced a barrage of shots and was a key reason the Canucks stayed in the game long enough to mount their comeback.
The Big Picture Without Hughes
The Canucks' 4-0 record without Quinn Hughes is a fascinating subplot. It highlights the team's unpredictable nature and the "next man up" mentality that has taken hold. However, the underlying statistics offer a cautionary tale. Vancouver has been outshot in three of these four victories, a trend that is unsustainable for long-term success.
For fans hoping for a high draft pick, the recent winning streak is a complicating factor, though the team's position in the standings remains poor. For the players and coaches in the room, these gritty wins build character and prove that no game is ever out of reach, regardless of the circumstances. The challenge now will be to harness this momentum while addressing the defensive lapses that have required such heroic comebacks.
