Vancouver Canucks goalie Nikita Tolopilo (60) makes a save during overtime against the San Jose Sharks in an NHL game in Vancouver on Monday, April 14, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Nikita Tolopilo had a night to remember on Monday as he stepped onto NHL ice for the very first time—and walked away with a win. The 25-year-old Belarusian goaltender helped the Vancouver Canucks secure a 2-1 overtime victory against the San Jose Sharks in what turned out to be an unforgettable debut.
Tolopilo, standing tall at six-foot-six, showed calmness well beyond his years. “I didn’t feel too nervous,” he admitted after the game. “Once I’m on the ice, I just focus on the next shot and do what I’ve always done—play hockey.” That single-minded approach paid off. He made 15 crucial saves, anchoring the Canucks through tight moments.
From the stands, his wife and a couple of close friends watched the game unfold. His parents, though thousands of miles away in Minsk, followed along in the early hours of the morning. “They couldn’t be here—getting a visa is tough for us. But I know they were watching at 5 a.m. back home. I’m pretty sure my mom was more nervous than I was,” he said with a smile.
Tolopilo’s NHL debut is the result of long hours and perseverance. Signed to a two-year, $1.9 million deal in March 2023, he spent most of the last two seasons with the Canucks’ AHL affiliate in Abbotsford. There, he built a solid record: 18 wins, 14 losses, 6 overtime losses, a 2.68 goals-against average, a .901 save percentage, and four shutouts.
Reflecting on the journey, he said, “I’m just really happy to get this opportunity. It’s been a long road, and I know there’s more work to come. We’re not done in Abby. I want to keep pushing and grow from this.”
Sharing the ice for their NHL debuts, Tolopilo was joined by defenceman Kirill Kudryavtsev, his roommate in Abbotsford. The 21-year-old Russian played just over 13 minutes, blocked three shots, and earned praise from head coach Rick Tocchet.
“Kirill looked really solid. He’s got good instincts and footwork. I think there’s potential there,” Tocchet noted. “As for Tolopilo, he was steady. It’s tough when you don’t see much action, but he handled it like a pro.”
San Jose’s only goal came from rookie Macklin Celebrini, who scored a sharp power-play goal midway through the second period. The goal, his 25th of the season, carried a personal touch—Celebrini grew up skating on that very rink while his dad worked for the Canucks. “Scoring here feels like a childhood dream,” he said.
The night also brought a milestone for Canucks captain Quinn Hughes. His assist on the game-winner tied him with Alex Edler for the most points by a Canucks' defenceman—409. The difference? Hughes hit that number in 432 games. Edler needed 925.
“He’s constantly growing as a leader,” Tocchet said. “He’s driven, focused, and wants to win. Missing the playoffs still stings for him. That fuels his fire.”
