VANCOUVER - Elias Pettersson scored two goals just 44 seconds apart during the second period, leading the Vancouver Canucks to a tense 4-3 win against the San Jose Sharks at Rogers Arena on December 23, 2024. This victory was particularly sweet for the Canucks, who were desperate to arrest their three-game winless streak, aiming to hit the holiday break on a positive note.
For Pettersson, this game was significant as it marked his return to form, concluding a frustrating stretch where he had gone six games without scoring. His goals, which included one on the power play, were not only timely but demonstrated his capability to influence the game during high-stakes moments. Pettersson's contributions were bolstered by Brock Boeser and Kiefer Sherwood, who also found the back of the net, helping Vancouver clinch their second win against the Sharks this season.
The Canucks lit up the scoreboard during the second period, scoring three goals within just 70 seconds, effectively flipping the momentum. Kiefer Sherwood opened the floodgates at 16:42, firing home after some creative play. Pettersson quickly followed up, snapping up a rebound and scoring at 17:08, before he struck again just 44 seconds later, showcasing his sharp shooting on the power play.
While all seemed well for the Canucks, the joy quickly turned to concern when Pettersson left the game early during the third period due to injury, casting a shadow over his impressive performance. Head Coach Rick Tocchet expressed optimism about Pettersson's injury, stating, "He got banged up in the second period and he tried one shift, but we’ve got the break and I don’t think it’s too bad — we’ll see how it is." Fans held their breath as they waited for updates on the team's star player.
The Sharks, fighting to turn their fortunes around, opened the scoring early with William Eklund capitalizing on a power play opportunity, but they struggled to maintain the momentum as the Canucks rallied. Cody Ceci and Luke Kunin both scored for San Jose, with Kunin’s finding the net with just 5.4 seconds remaining, but it came too late to change the game's outcome.
The Goaltenders were also pivotal; Canucks netminder Thatcher Demko made 28 saves, displaying resilience and skill to help his team secure the win, improving his career record against the Sharks to 12-0-0. Yaroslav Askarov, making his first appearance against Vancouver, faced 21 shots on goal.
Overall, the match mirrored the Christmas spirit, displaying the highs of athletic triumphs and the lows of injuries and losses. While the Canucks celebrated their victory, they also recognized the need for vigilance as they prepare to face the Seattle Kraken on December 28, hoping to build on this success.
Meanwhile, the Sharks, now on a five-game losing streak, will have to regroup as they head home to face the Vegas Golden Knights on December 27. The rally against the Canucks may not have secured the win, but with promising performances from the likes of rookie Macklin Celebrini, who earned two assists, there remain glimmers of hope for the struggling team.
Fans from both sides are left waiting to see what the next week holds, particularly for Pettersson’s recovery and the Canucks' newfound confidence. The stakes have never felt higher as both teams look to improve post-holiday.”
