Teddy Blueger and Jonathan Lekkerimaki of the Vancouver Canucks celebrate after Blueger scores against the Anaheim Ducks in the second period of their NHL game in Vancouver on Wednesday, March 5, 2025. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns)
The Vancouver Canucks edged out the Anaheim Ducks 3-2 on Wednesday night, thanks to a decisive goal from Carson Soucy. The victory marked a crucial win for Vancouver as they continued their push for a playoff spot in the Western Conference.
Canucks Secure Hard-Fought Win
Jake DeBrusk opened the scoring for the Canucks with a power-play goal in the second period, marking his 22nd of the season. Shortly after, Teddy Blueger added another, while Filip Hronek contributed two assists to strengthen Vancouver’s offence.
Goaltender Kevin Lankinen made 14 saves, helping his team hold off Anaheim’s late-game surge. The win improved the Canucks' record to 2-4-0 since the 4 Nations Face-Off break, putting them in a tight battle for the final playoff spot.
Ducks Lose Goalie John Gibson to Injury
Anaheim took an early lead in the first period when Sam Colangelo tipped in a goal past Lankinen. However, the Ducks suffered a setback when their starting goalie, John Gibson, exited midway through the second period due to an injury sustained in a collision with Vancouver’s Drew O’Connor.
Before leaving the ice, Gibson stopped 19 of 21 shots. Backup goaltender Lukas Dostal stepped in, making 14 saves but was unable to prevent the Canucks from securing the win.
Brian Dumoulin gave Anaheim hope with a third-period goal, narrowing the score to 3-2, but the Ducks ultimately fell short.
Game-Changing Moment
With the Canucks leading 2-1 in the second period, Soucy delivered the game-winning goal, firing a shot from the top of the face off circle. Anaheim challenged the goal for potential goalie interference, as Vancouver’s Kiefer Sherwood was inside the crease at the time. After an extensive review, officials ruled in favour of Vancouver, confirming the goal and granting them a power play.
Key Stat
Teddy Blueger’s second-period goal was his first in 28 games, ending a scoring drought that dated back to December 21. The Latvian forward’s persistence finally paid off at a crucial moment for the Canucks.
What’s Next?
The Canucks will continue their home stand on Friday against the Minnesota Wild, aiming to build momentum in the playoff race. Meanwhile, the Ducks will return home to host the St. Louis Blues, hoping to bounce back after a tough loss.
