NHL Game Recap: Edmonton Oilers vs. Vancouver Canucks | 4/13/2024

The Vancouver Canucks faced off against the Edmonton Oilers in a crucial game at Rogers Place on Saturday night that had a significant impact on the Pacific Division’s seeding. The Oilers were seeking payback against the Canucks, who had dominated them in three previous games, and this was their first meeting since November. The Oilers played without their captain, Connor McDavid, for the third game in a row, which I think is a wise decision to ensure his health during the playoffs. The Oilers started the game aggressively and drew an early penalty from the Canucks. Despite having several excellent opportunities, the Oilers were unable to capitalize on them, and Canucks goalie Casey Desmith made some impressive saves. Stuart Skinner made a stunning save towards the end of the first period, which kept the scoreline level. However, with just fifteen seconds remaining in the period, Sam Lafferty scored an incredible wrist shot, beating Stuart Skinner and putting the Canucks ahead 1-0.

During the second period, the game became more defensive with tight checking, and Casey Desmith of the Canucks continued to make outstanding saves. Pius Suter scored early in the period, increasing the Canucks’ lead to 2-0. A hard hit on Evander Kane resulted in some aggressive play from him, which led to the Oilers scoring a tip-in goal, bringing them within one. Despite a few other chances from the Oilers, the Canucks defense and Casey Desmith stood strong for the remainder of the second period. Stuart Skinner also made crucial saves to keep the Oilers within one goal as they headed to the break.

In the third period, there was another tight checking twenty minutes with little scoring. Despite Evander Kane’s strong game and aggressive play, the Oilers were unable to solve the Canucks’ defense. Vancouver played solid defense throughout the period, causing Edmonton to fall behind 2-1 with only three minutes left. Zach Hyman was hit with a high shoulder from Zadorov, which should have been called a penalty and could have sparked a comeback for the Oilers. Later on, the Oilers made a costly mistake by pulling Skinner from the net at the wrong time, as the puck was turned over to Dakota Joshua, who scored an empty net goal to seal the game 3-1 for the Canucks. With this win, the Canucks swept the season series 4-0, holding the tiebreaker over the Oilers. The only chance for Edmonton to win the Pacific Division is if they win their final three games and Vancouver loses their final two, but this seems unlikely. The Oilers will play their next game against the San Jose Sharks at home on Monday, followed by back-to-back away games at Arizona and Colorado. Despite this loss, I still have confidence in this group and their ability to make a run for the cup, especially when their captain, Connor McDavid, returns to action.