Opinion
3 min read

Canucks Set to Tangle with Kraken in Upcoming Showdown

As the Vancouver Canucks prepare to face off against the Seattle Kraken at Climate Pledge Arena, fans are bracing for what promises to be a thrilling encounter. The Canucks, coming off a mixed bag of recent performances, have shown both flashes of brilliance and areas needing improvement.


Nov 24, 2023; Seattle, Washington, USA; The Vancouver Canucks celebrate after left wing Nils Hoglander (21) scored a goal against the Seattle Kraken during the third period at Climate Pledge Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

In their last game on February 11 against the Washington Capitals, VAN demonstrated resilience and an ability to capitalize in high-pressure situations. Securing a win with an overtime goal after maintaining even strength throughout is no small feat. The team's goaltending was impeccable, boasting a save percentage of 100 percent while facing 33 shots. This defensive solidity could be crucial when they meet SEA.


However, it wasn't all smooth sailing; VAN struggled on power plays during that game, failing to convert any of their three opportunities despite six shots on goal. This inefficiency could cost them dearly against SEA if not addressed promptly.


Nov 24, 2023; Seattle, Washington, USA; Vancouver Canucks center Dakota Joshua (81) celebrates with the bench after scoring a goal against the Seattle Kraken during the second period at Climate Pledge Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

Looking further back at their February 10 game versus the Detroit Red Wings provides additional insights into VAN's current form. They displayed offensive prowess by netting three goals from just 17 even-strength shots but were let down by penalties – nine in total – which led to one powerplay goal for DET and ultimately contributed to an overtime loss.


The most concerning performance came on February 9 against the Boston Bruins where VAN failed to score despite taking 17 shots and were heavily penalized five times leading up to two shorthanded goals for BOS. It was a night where nothing seemed to go right for VAN as they lost without putting any points on the scoreboard.


Nov 24, 2023; Seattle, Washington, USA; Vancouver Canucks right wing Ilya Mikheyev (65) during the third period against the Seattle Kraken at Climate Pledge Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

The upcoming clash with SEA will demand that VAN tighten up their discipline while finding ways to unlock their powerplay potential once again. With strong goaltending as their backbone and an emphasis on converting scoring chances especially during man advantages, there's reason for optimism among Canucks fans.


SEA should not be underestimated though; they will look forward to leveraging home advantage at Climate Pledge Arena and countering any weaknesses shown by VAN in recent outings.


The scheduled puck drop is set for February 23rd at Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle at 7:00 PM local time (10:00 PM EST). Fans unable or preferring not attend can catch all the action live via ESPN+ online or ROOT Sports NW channel number 687 for those watching from home territory.

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