VANCOUVER — Dakota Joshua’s two-goal performance, along with an assist, propelled the Vancouver Canucks to a thrilling 4-2 triumph over the Nashville Predators in the opening game of their first-round playoff clash on Sunday.
Trailing 2-1 as they entered the final period, the Canucks orchestrated a remarkable turnaround with two quick goals just 12 seconds apart midway through the third.
Elias Lindholm and Quinn Hughes also found the back of the net for Vancouver, while Thatcher Demko showcased his prowess with 20 saves out of 22 shots.
The Predators managed goals courtesy of Jason Zucker and Ryan O’Reilly, with Juuse Saros making 17 saves in the effort.
Having concluded the regular season as Pacific Division champions, Vancouver marked its return to playoff action for the first time since 2015 with an exuberant home crowd. Fans showed their enthusiasm by waving white towels and offering spirited cheers throughout the game.
Nashville drew first blood 15:15 into the game when Zucker capitalized on a pass from Roman Josi, firing a shot past Demko from the faceoff circle.
Despite Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet’s attempt to ignite his offense by assembling his top scoring line late in the first period, Vancouver couldn’t find the breakthrough.
Lindholm leveled the score at 1-1 just 47 seconds into the second period with a well-placed wrist shot. Although Vancouver continued to press, Saros stood tall in the Predators’ net.
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The Canucks encountered penalty trouble in the second period, conceding three penalties in just over six minutes. Nashville took advantage of their first power play opportunity, with O’Reilly scoring to give the Predators a 2-1 lead.
Vancouver’s persistence paid off in the third period, with Hughes and Joshua scoring in quick succession to turn the tide in their favor.
Demko’s stellar goaltending ensured the Canucks maintained their one-goal lead, making crucial saves in the closing minutes of the game.
With the victory secured, the Canucks look ahead to Game 2 on Tuesday in Vancouver, before the series shifts to Nashville for Games 3 and 4.
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