Canucks Rely on Rookies for Key Matchup Against Sharks

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, April 14, 2025 — As the Vancouver Canucks prepare to face the San Jose Sharks at Rogers Arena tonight, they will showcase two promising rookies making their NHL debuts: defenseman Kirill Kudryavtsev and goaltender Nikita Tolopilo.

The matchup comes at a critical juncture in the season for the Canucks, who have been eliminated from playoff contention. The game is scheduled to begin at 10 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on SNP and NBCSCA.

Without several key players due to injury, including Derek Forbort and Tyler Myers, the Canucks turned to their AHL affiliate, the Abbotsford Canucks, for reinforcements. Kudryavtsev, a seventh-round pick in the 2022 NHL Draft, had an impressive season in the OHL where he accumulated 50 points in 67 games last year before transitioning to a strong defensive role. This season in the AHL, he has 26 points in 63 games.

“It means a lot,” Kudryavtsev said. “I’m really excited for my first game. I know it probably doesn’t really mean much in the standings for the NHL team, but it means a lot for me and for Tolo.”

Meanwhile, 25-year-old Tolopilo will replace Thatcher Demko, who is sidelined due to illness. Since signing with the Canucks as an undrafted free agent in 2023, Tolopilo has demonstrated exceptional promise, boasting a .901 save percentage in the AHL and a standout .974 save percentage in his previous outing against the San Jose Barracuda.

“This is a good opportunity for me,” Tolopilo said. “I’m ready for the challenge.”

The Sharks, too, will be missing players due to injuries, including forwards Thomas Bordeleau and Zack Ostapchuk. Coach Ryan Warsofsky confirmed that they will sit alongside defensemen Jan Rutta and Jack Thompson, who are considered day-to-day.

“We’re up against a tough situation but we’ve got some young talent ready to step in,” Warsofsky said. “It’s a chance for them to showcase what they can do.”

Alexandar Georgiev is set to start for the Sharks after fellow goalie Georgi Romanov recorded 25 saves during a 5-2 loss against the Calgary Flames on Sunday. This matchup presents a unique opportunity for the Sharks to rely on their depth given the current roster challenges.

The Canucks’ forward lineup features Nils Hoglander, Pius Suter, and Conor Garland at the top line. They are eager to provide support for the rookies while aiming for a solid finish to the season despite their elimination from postseason contention.

As the stakes shift into a developmental phase for both teams, tonight’s game will serve as an essential experience for the young players involved, setting the tone for their futures in the league.