Dallas Stars goalie Casey DeSmith gets ready to block a shot from Vancouver Canucks forward Teddy Blueger as Dallas' Mikko Rantanen moves in on defence during the third period of their NHL game in Vancouver on Sunday, March 9, 2025. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns)
The Vancouver Canucks' ongoing scoring troubles cost them another crucial game, falling 4-1 to the Dallas Stars on Sunday. As they compete for the final Western Conference playoff spot, their inability to capitalize on opportunities is becoming a major concern.
Head coach Rick Tocchet emphasized the urgency, saying, “We need some desperation. Grab a puck and do something.” Despite appreciating his players’ effort, he acknowledged that without more goals, winning tight games will remain a challenge.
Since the NHL returned from the 4 Nations Face-Off break, Vancouver has been outscored 25-17 and holds a 3-5-0 record. With 19 games left in the regular season, Tocchet stressed the importance of finding an offensive edge. “You need a cushion. You need goals,” he said.
Defensive Efforts Fall Short Without Offense
Vancouver’s defence managed to contain the Stars, who rank among the league’s highest-scoring teams, limiting them to just 19 shots. However, the Canucks’ attack failed to break through, registering only 23 shots on Dallas goalie Casey DeSmith.
“They’re structured defensively,” said Canucks center Elias Pettersson. “We had chances, but they blocked a lot of our shots.”
The Canucks’ only goal came from Derek Forbort in the second period. Assisted by Conor Garland, Forbort fired a shot into the top corner, marking his first goal since February 2023, when he played for the Boston Bruins.
“It feels like we’re doing all the right things,” Forbort said. “Guys are working hard, getting above pucks. Hopefully, the goals start coming.”
Ice Time Reflects Performance, Says Tocchet
Some of Vancouver’s top scorers saw limited ice time against the Stars. Jake DeBrusk, the team’s leading goalscorer with 22 goals, played just over 12 minutes. Brock Boeser and Filip Chytil also had reduced minutes.
When asked about the decision, Tocchet was firm: “I don’t care how long you’ve been here. You’ve got to earn your ice time. That’s how you win Stanley Cups.”
DeSmith Enjoys Victory Over Former Team
Dallas goalie Casey DeSmith, who played for Vancouver last season, admitted the win felt extra special.
“I’m only human, so it feels good to beat that team,” said DeSmith, who signed with the Stars last summer. His strong season continues with a 12-6-0 record, a .914 save percentage, and two shutouts.
“I feel confident,” he said. “Playing behind this team helps a lot. We’ve been playing really good hockey.”
Granlund Breaks Goal Drought
Mikael Granlund’s game-winning goal late in the second period ended his 13-game scoring drought. The Finnish forward pounced on a rebound and fired the puck over Canuck's goalie Kevin Lankinen’s shoulder to give Dallas a 2-1 lead.
“He’s created chances but just hasn’t finished,” said Stars coach Peter Debye. “Once he gets one, I think he’ll get going.”
Acquired from San Jose last month, Granlund’s goal helped the Stars secure another key win as they push toward the playoffs.
