Opinion
3 min read

Vancouver Canucks Set to Prey on Nashville Predators at Home Ice

The Vancouver Canucks are gearing up for a pivotal showdown against the Nashville Predators, and the stakes couldn't be higher. With recent performances painting a picture of resilience and strategic prowess, the Canucks have shown they are not to be underestimated.


Apr 21, 2024; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN;  Vancouver Canucks goalie Thatcher Demko (35) watches the Canucks celebrate a goal score by forward Elias Lindholm (23) against the Nashville Predators in the second period in game one of the first round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports

In their last encounter on April 22nd, the Canucks demonstrated a remarkable comeback with an impressive third-period performance, netting three goals to secure a 4-2 victory over the Predators. This was no fluke; it was a testament to their tenacity and ability to capitalize under pressure. The team's shooting percentage stood out at an impressive 19 percent, showcasing their efficiency in front of goal.


The defensive aspect cannot be overlooked either. The Canucks' goaltending was nothing short of stellar with 20 saves from 22 shots, reflecting a save percentage that rounded up to perfection. Their ability to shut down opponents' power plays was evident as they did not concede any goals in such situations.


Apr 21, 2024; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks defenseman Quinn Hughes (43) handles the puck against the Nashville Predators in the second period in game one of the first round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports

On the flip side, while Nashville's physicality was apparent with 30 hits delivered in their last game against Vancouver, it wasn't enough to intimidate or throw off balance a determined Canucks squad. The Predators will need more than brute force if they hope to overcome Vancouver's strategic play and sharpshooting.


Moreover, VAN's faceoff win percentage has been superior when compared head-to-head against NSH’s performance in their previous matchup – winning 56 percent over NSH’s mere 44 percent. This control over puck possession could once again play a crucial role in determining which team dictates the pace of the game.


Apr 21, 2024; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Nashville Predators forward Gustav Nyquist (14) celebrates a goal scored by forward Ryan O'Reilly (90) against the Vancouver Canucks in the second period in game one of the first round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports

One area where VAN needs improvement is discipline; penalties have cost them valuable momentum in past games. However, if they can maintain composure and stay out of the box while exploiting NSH’s weaknesses as seen before – particularly by taking advantage of powerplay opportunities – there is little doubt about who will emerge victorious.


As fans eagerly anticipate this clash at Rogers Arena on April 24th at 7:00 PM local time (10:00 PM ET), it promises high-octane action where every shift could tilt the scales. Fans can catch all this action live on ESPN2 or SportsNet for television broadcasts or tune into TVAS for additional coverage options.

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