In a game that was pure chaos on ice, the Vancouver Canucks emerged with a narrow 5-4 victory over the speedy Anaheim Ducks on Wednesday night. The contest was a back-and-forth affair, perfectly encapsulating the high-octane, sometimes defensively porous styles of both clubs, with the Canucks scoring the decisive goal late in the third period.
A Goaltender Steals the Show
While the scoreboard lit up, the story of the game was the performance of Canucks goaltender Nikita Tolopilo. Making just his second career NHL start, the big Belarusian was a picture of calm amidst the storm, turning away 38 shots to backstop his team to the win. Recruited by goalie guru Ian Clark in 2023, Tolopilo showcased the steady demeanour and technical prowess that suggests he could be a goalie of the future for Vancouver, even with established netminders on the roster.
Player Grades: Who Stepped Up in Anaheim?
Forwards:
Elias Pettersson (C+): The top-line centre made some clever early plays, including a key blocked pass on the power play, but struggled at times to contain the Ducks' relentless speed.
Evander Kane (B-): Found the back of the net in the first period, proving he can still contribute in a reduced role.
Conor Garland (B): His trademark feistiness was on full display, and he was rewarded with a goal after a slick setup from Brock Boeser.
Max Sasson (B-): Although his ice time was limited, Sasson made it count. He earned more shifts as the game progressed and ultimately tipped in the game-winning goal in the third period.
Linus Karlsson (B-): Showed great hustle to gain the zone and was in the perfect position to pounce on a rebound for his fourth goal of the season.
Defence:
Quinn Hughes (A): The captain was his usual brilliant self, an effervescent and dynamic presence at both ends of the ice all night long.
Filip Hronek (A): Partnering with Hughes, Hronek had another monster performance, leading by example with his steady and impactful play.
Tom Willander (C): The young defender had a rare tough night, struggling with the Ducks' speed in his own zone, though he still managed to pick up two assists.
A Blueprint for the Future?
The win, while messy, highlighted both the Canucks' offensive depth—goals have now come from 19 different players this season—and the areas that need tightening. The Ducks' model of fast, youthful hockey is precisely the identity Vancouver aspires to, albeit with a stronger defensive structure. As President of Hockey Operations Jim Rutherford has stated, the mission is to get younger, and performances from players like Tolopilo and Sasson are crucial steps in that direction. The Canucks continue to find ways to win, even on nights where the game plan devolves into a thrilling track meet.
