VANCOUVER — The Seattle Kraken exposed the Vancouver Canucks` weaknesses.
A previous home loss to the Kraken in December, where the Canucks squandered a 4-1 lead, served as a critical warning sign for Vancouver`s struggles.
Injuries and poor performance had already weakened the team, but the nature of the defeat against Seattle highlighted vulnerabilities reminiscent of past collapses.
Leading up to this, Vancouver had suffered losses against teams like Nashville and Utah, crucial games as teams vied for playoff spots.
During a critical period for Vancouver`s playoff aspirations, they also lost to Buffalo, Anaheim, Seattle again, and suffered an overtime loss to Columbus after giving up a late two-goal lead.
Therefore, Seattle`s dominant 5-0 victory on Wednesday at Rogers Arena, despite their own struggles this season, shouldn`t have been entirely unexpected.
While the Canucks showed resilience during a recent road trip, Wednesday`s game highlighted their inconsistencies, particularly at home where they initially struggled.
Despite facing numerous challenges, Vancouver`s resilience, combined with strong goaltending, penalty killing, defense, and the play of Quinn Hughes, had kept them in playoff contention until St. Louis`s improved performance.
However, Wednesday’s disheartening loss, where the Canucks appeared mentally and physically drained, signaled the likely end of their playoff hopes.
The defeat was painful, and many fans expressed their disappointment with boos.
Captain Hughes acknowledged the team`s fatigue but dismissed excuses, stating the team is aware of their playoff chances and current standings.
With only seven games remaining, the Canucks are significantly behind in the playoff race, with a low percentage chance of qualifying.
After failing to compete against Seattle, questions arise about their ability to defeat upcoming strong opponents like Vegas, Dallas, and Colorado.
The Canucks are scheduled to play Anaheim next.
Defenseman Marcus Pettersson described Wednesday’s loss as frustrating and deflating, emphasizing the need for the team to regroup and continue fighting.
He affirmed the team`s determination to compete until the end and bounce back stronger.
Seattle exploited Vancouver`s defensive vulnerabilities, scoring multiple goals on transition plays, quickly dispelling any notion of Wednesday`s game being a crucial turning point.
St. Louis, previously tied with Vancouver, has surged ahead with a ten-game winning streak, while Calgary remains in contention. Even Minnesota, despite recent struggles, managed to gain a point.
Key goals for Seattle included Mikey Eyssimont`s breakaway, sharp-angle goals from Chandler Stephenson and Shane Wright, and Andre Burakovsky`s counter-attack goal. Adam Larsson added an empty-net goal, sealing the Canucks` fate.
Coach Tocchet noted early nervousness and a lack of poise in the Canucks` play, particularly on power plays. He acknowledged effort from some players but overall, the team lacked composure.
The Canucks` ineffective power play, injuries to key players like Hughes and Garland, and the absence of Elias Pettersson and J.T. Miller further contributed to their struggles.
Vancouver`s defensive performance was also subpar, failing to contain Seattle`s offensive strengths, despite outshooting and out-attempting the Kraken.
Ultimately, this loss in April feels like a fatal blow to their playoff aspirations.
DeBrusk took responsibility for his costly turnover, expressing frustration and disappointment but affirming his belief in the team and commitment to improvement.
Tocchet urged continued belief and perseverance, especially for younger players, emphasizing the need to keep pushing forward despite challenges.
