Canucks explode with six goals in statement win against Rangers
The Vancouver Canucks marched into New York City and easily handled one of the NHL’s premier contenders. The visitors exploded for six goals in a huge win over the Metropolitan Division leading New York Rangers, winning 6-3.
Not only did the Canucks light the lamp often, they did so in style. The game looked to be close midway through the second period as the Canucks clutched onto a one-goal lead. However, back-to-back highlight reel goals by Elias Pettersson and Nils Höglander gave the visiting team the boost they needed to pull away.
To start, Pettersson showed off his soft hands in close, maneuvering around Igor Shesterkin.
ELIAS FREAKIN' PETTERSSON ‼️ pic.twitter.com/TVc4pDjyRj
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) January 9, 2024
Then, Höglander tried to one-up his teammate with a nifty move where he pulled the puck behind his back before firing it into the back of the net on his backhand.
Holy moly Höglander 🔥 pic.twitter.com/nrSjtpdjDl
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) January 9, 2024
Pettersson and Höglander each scored twice. The other goal-scorers for the Canucks included J.T. Miller and Brock Boeser. Beyond the goals, there were plenty of other highlight reel plays, including this reverse hit by Pettersson.
Pettersson with the huge reverse hit đź’Ą pic.twitter.com/0VHHybVlKe
— Rob Williams (@RobTheHockeyGuy) January 9, 2024
The Lotto Line — comprised of Pettersson, Miller, and Boeser — was excellent for the second consecutive game since being reunited against the New Jersey Devils. The trio has now scored eight goals over the past six periods of hockey.
“We played good. We understand each other and the way I think that we want to defend and forecheck, and that sets up good chances offensively for us,” Pettersson said about his line after the game. “I think that’s a big reason for us why we are having success now.”
Thatcher Demko made 39 saves, including 13 in the third period to help secure the victory.
The Canucks have scored at least five goals in each of their past five wins, showing off an offensive attack that has them first in the NHL in goals.
The Canucks also improved to 23-0-0 when leading after two periods. They’ve displayed a remarkable ability to hold onto leads late and close games out. They now have a four point lead on the Vegas Golden Knights for the Pacific Division lead.
The Canucks are right back in action as they play against the New York Islanders tomorrow night. The puck drops for that game at 4:30 pm PT as the Western Conference team looks to win their third consecutive game.