In a thrilling matchup at Crypto.com Arena on Wednesday night, the Vancouver Canucks edged out the Los Angeles Kings 3-2 in overtime. Conor Garland was the hero, netting his second goal of the game with just 34 seconds remaining in the extra period. This victory propels the Canucks back into the second wild-card spot in the Western Conference, while the Kings remain in close contention within the Pacific Division.
The game commenced with a defensive standoff, as neither team registered a shot on goal in the opening five minutes. The deadlock was broken at 9:56 of the first period when Nils Hoglander received a pass from defenseman Derek Forbort and fired a wrist shot past Kings’ goalie David Rittich, marking his fifth goal of the season. The period concluded with the Canucks leading in shots 6-4.
The second period mirrored the first in its defensive intensity. Both teams had power-play opportunities, but it was the Canucks who capitalized. At 13:07, during Vancouver’s first power play, Filip Chytil delivered a precise centering pass to Garland, who one-timed it into the net, extending the lead to 2-0. The Kings outshot the Canucks 13-12 by the end of the period but couldn’t find the back of the net.
The Kings showcased resilience in the third period. Adrian Kempe ignited the comeback at 9:16, weaving through defenders and beating Canucks’ goalie Kevin Lankinen with a sharp wrist shot. Later, at 14:01, Warren Foegele redirected a shot from Jordan Spence, leveling the score at 2-2. Despite a challenge from Vancouver for goaltender interference, the goal stood after review.
In overtime, the Canucks faced adversity, successfully killing a 4-on-3 Kings power play. Shortly after returning to even strength, Quinn Hughes, making his return after a six-game absence due to injury, assisted Garland on a swift rush. Garland’s wrist shot from the left circle sealed the win at 4:26 of overtime.
This victory not only halts a two-game skid for Vancouver but also enhances their playoff prospects. The Canucks continue their road trip with a game against the Anaheim Ducks tomorrow, while the Kings are set to face the Dallas Stars on Friday.