Vancouver Canucks forward Elias Pettersson collides with Calgary Flames' Matthew Coronato during the second period of an NHL game in Calgary on Wednesday, March 12, 2025. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh)
After a slow start to the season, Elias Pettersson is hitting his stride at the right time, boosting the Vancouver Canucks’ playoff hopes with a stellar performance against the Calgary Flames.
In a high-stakes game on Wednesday night, Pettersson delivered when it mattered most—scoring the tying goal, assisting on another, and sealing the victory in the shootout. The Canucks edged out the Flames 4-3, grabbing two crucial points in the Western Conference wild-card race. While both teams now sit level in the standings, Calgary holds the advantage with a game in hand.
Pettersson’s Revival Comes at the Perfect Time
Pettersson’s recent form is a welcome sight for Vancouver fans. After enduring a 15-game goal drought, he has now found the net three times in his last four outings. The 26-year-old Swede, known for his offensive firepower, is far from his usual numbers—just 14 goals this season compared to his career-best 39 in 2022-23.
“Definitely feel good now,” Pettersson admitted, but quickly added, “But it’s just one game.”
His coach, Rick Tocchet, has noticed the shift in his top centre’s play. “He’s putting together strong performances,” Tocchet said. “We’ve talked about staying level-headed. There were some tough stretches, but he’s finding his rhythm.”
Canucks Show Grit in Tight Battle
The game was a back-and-forth contest between two division rivals, with Vancouver taking 1-0 and 2-1 leads before needing a third-period comeback to force overtime.
"Both teams knew what was at stake," Pettersson said. "We’re neck and neck in the standings, and every game matters from here on out."
Pius Suter and Jake DeBrusk also found the net for Vancouver, while Calgary's Jonathan Huberdeau struck twice, and Nazem Kadri added one for the Flames.
Despite trailing 3-2 heading into the third, the Canucks refused to fold. Pettersson’s goal at 13:16 evened the score, setting the stage for a dramatic finish. He set up defenceman Victor Mancini’s shot and capitalized on the rebound after Calgary goalie Dustin Wolf failed to control it.
Neither team scored in overtime, though Vancouver dominated possession. In the shootout, Conor Garland fired home the decisive goal in the fourth round to clinch the win.
Hughes Returns, Makes an Immediate Impact
Canucks captain Quinn Hughes made his presence felt in his first game back after missing four contests due to injury. Logging nearly 30 minutes of ice time, Hughes assisted on DeBrusk’s power-play goal and showed why he’s one of the team’s most valuable players.
“Really fun to be back and feel confident in my body again,” Hughes said. “As we play more games, I’ll get my conditioning back.”
Head coach Tocchet was in awe of Hughes’ immediate impact. “Not many guys can step in after barely practicing and perform at that level. He’s a game-changer for us.”
Goalie Duel Ends in Canucks’ Favor
Vancouver goaltender Kevin Lankinen, playing on back-to-back nights, turned away 20 shots to secure the win. On the other side, Wolf made 28 saves but couldn't keep the Canucks at bay in the shootout.
With the playoff race heating up, the Canucks will look to build on this momentum as they continue their push for a postseason berth.
