Recap
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Canucks' Powerplay Dilemma: Did Seattle Kraken's Defense Steal the Show?

First Period


In a tightly contested matchup at Rogers Arena, the Vancouver Canucks faced off against the Seattle Kraken. The game ended with a score of 4-3 in favor of Seattle, leaving the Canucks with a record of 16-20-4 and Seattle improving to 18-14-7. The first period saw both teams testing each other's defenses without any goals being scored by Vancouver. However, Seattle managed to find an early lead through their even-strength play.


Jan 2, 2026; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Seattle Kraken forward Shane Wright (51) and defenseman Cale Fleury (8) and forward Jared McCann (19) celebrate Fleury’s goal against the Vancouver Canucks in the first period at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images

Second Period


The second period was marked by increased intensity from both sides. Vancouver's powerplay unit came alive as they netted two goals, showcasing their offensive capabilities. Jake DeBrusk was instrumental in this effort, contributing significantly with his presence on the ice and ending up as one of the game's stars for his performance. Despite this surge from the Nucks, Seattle responded effectively with two goals of their own during even-strength play.


Third Period


As the third period unfolded, it became clear that both teams were determined to secure victory. Linus Karlsson added another goal for Vancouver during even strength play, leveling things up momentarily and keeping fans on edge. However, despite their efforts and maintaining pressure throughout this segment of playtime; they could not capitalize further against a resilient Kraken defense which held firm under pressure.


Jan 2, 2026; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Seattle Kraken forward Ryan Winterton (26) reacts as Vancouver Canucks forward Elias Pettersson (40) and forward Brock Boeser (6) and forward Jake DeBrusk (74) celebrate DeBrusk’s goal scored on goalie Joey Daccord (35) in the second period at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images

Overtime & Shootout


The game extended into overtime but remained deadlocked until it reached its climax in a shootout where Matty Beniers shone brightly for Seattle by scoring decisively while their goaltender made crucial saves against all three attempts from Vancouver shooters - sealing victory ultimately at Rogers Arena.


This encounter highlighted several key moments including "Vancouver Canucks vs Seattle Kraken turning point" when missed opportunities during powerplays could have shifted momentum towards them instead allowing opponents capitalize later stages leading up final whistle reaction amongst home crowd witnessing yet another close contest between these fierce rivals within league standings currently underway season long campaign ahead next scheduled fixture set take place January 3rd hosting Boston Bruins back here same venue broadcast live via ESPN+ NESN networks starting time slated around evening hours local timezone respectively so mark calendars accordingly stay tuned updates follow along journey unfolds further down line!


Jan 2, 2026; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Seattle Kraken forward Shane Wright (51) and defenseman Cale Fleury (8) and forward Jared McCann (19) celebrate Fleury’s goal against the Vancouver Canucks in the first period at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images
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