James Atama
The buzz: The Canucks are on their third road game of the week, looking to secure a win after two consecutive overtime losses. Anticipation was high for this road trip, and it is proving to be challenging. A victory in Carolina would reaffirm that the team can be what many believed they could be—neither a Stanley Cup contender but a tenacious group with enough skill to prevail more consistently. A vital factor in returning to that form will be the potential return of Elias Pettersson, who has been cleared to play and now needs to confirm he’s ready. Additionally, Thatcher Demko has recovered from back spasms and is set to start either Friday in Carolina or Saturday in Toronto.
The history: On October 28, the Hurricanes edged past the Canucks 4-3 in overtime. The Canucks staged a late comeback, scoring twice within the last 10 minutes of regulation to force the extra period. While Carolina outperformed the Canucks in terms of speed, they made mistakes that allowed Vancouver back into the game.
The hope: Vancouver put up a valiant effort on Wednesday against Washington, earning a point despite being unable to finish strong. They have the potential to improve their performance against the Hurricanes, who are considered a stronger team than the Capitals, even though Washington currently has a good record.
The fear: Consistency has been a challenge for the Canucks this season. When facing a quick team like the Hurricanes, they might find it difficult to maintain the same level of defensive persistence they showed in D.C.
The top guns: Although his overall performance has been inconsistent, J.T. Miller has been finding the back of the net lately. After a stretch of lackluster games, he has been more engaged, with head coach Rick Tocchet increasing his ice time. Miller netted two goals and two assists on Monday in Montreal. Quinn Hughes continues to impress, adding points in both Montreal and D.C. after returning from a hand injury.
The wounded: Canucks: Filip Hronek (shoulder, three weeks), Pettersson (undisclosed, day-to-day). Predators: Adam Wilsby (upper body, day-to-day). Hurricanes: Tyson Jost (lower body, indefinite), Shayne Gostisbehere (upper body, week-to-week), William Carrier (lower body, day-to-day), Fredrik Andersen (knee, week-to-week).
The quote: “It’s frustrating, but we can’t sulk about it.” — Quinn Hughes on the team’s lack of success in overtime this season.
The latest: Filip Hronek is nearing a return after being sent to AHL Abbotsford on a conditioning loan to practice with the Canucks’ minor league team.
The lineup:
Boeser-Miller-Lekkerimäki
DeBrusk-Suter-Garland
Heinen-Blueger-Sherwood
Höglander-Sasson-DiGiuseppe
Hughes-Myers
Soucy-Juulsen
Forbort-Desharnais
Demko
The prediction: Given Carolina’s speed, and Vancouver’s differing pace, this matchup is likely to be challenging for the Canucks, with a predicted 4-2 victory for the Hurricanes.
