Slafkovsky Shines as Canadiens Defeat Canucks 4-2 in Vancouver

VANCOUVER, British Columbia (AP) — Juraj Slafkovsky‘s standout performance led the Montreal Canadiens to a 4-2 victory over the struggling Vancouver Canucks on Tuesday night at Rogers Arena.

Slafkovsky recorded one goal and two assists, while Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield each contributed a goal and an assist. Mike Matheson added an empty-net goal in the final minute, securing Montreal’s sixth win in their last eight games.

With the victory, the Canadiens improved to 6-1-1 over their last eight matchups, pulling into a tie with the Boston Bruins and New York Rangers, just two points behind the Columbus Blue Jackets for the second wild card in the Eastern Conference.

“It feels great to contribute like this,” Slafkovsky said after the game. “We’re pushing hard for that playoff spot and every point counts.”

Sam Montembault was instrumental in the win, making 29 saves. While the Canadiens showed a well-rounded offense, the Canucks struggled to capitalize on opportunities. Filip Hronek and Elias Pettersson were the only players to find the net for Vancouver.

Vancouver goalie Kevin Lankinen recorded 23 saves but could not prevent the Canadiens from building a three-goal lead. With less than two minutes remaining and down 3-2, the Canucks pulled Lankinen for an extra skater in a desperate attempt to equalize.

“We had our chances, but we just couldn’t finish,” Canucks coach Rick Tocchet said. “It’s been that way for a while. We need to find a way to be better.”

The first period saw Slafkovsky open the scoring, followed by Suzuki’s and Caufield’s contributions, with Caufield’s goal marking his team-leading 32nd of the season. The Canadiens capitalized on a fast-paced play, with Slafkovsky feeding the puck to Suzuki, who then assisted Caufield.

The Canucks have now gone 15 games without scoring more than three goals, a streak that dates back to January 29 when they defeated the St. Louis Blues. They are 0-19-4 when trailing after two periods this season.

Looking ahead, the Canadiens will face the Seattle Kraken on Wednesday, while the Canucks prepare to meet the Calgary Flames.