Vancouver Canucks fans at Rogers Arena experienced something unusual, and for the players, it was a double dose of surprise.
Heading into their matchup against the Nashville Predators, the Canucks were struggling, having secured only four victories in their last 29 games. As the third period began, they found themselves trailing by two goals. Historically, this Canucks team was 2-32-1 when behind after two periods, with both come-from-behind wins occurring when they were only one goal down entering the third.
It seemed like another defeat was imminent.
But then, the Canucks turned the tables.
Marco Rossi ignited the comeback with a goal, and Filip Hronek followed up to tie the game.
The drama continued with Jake DeBrusk clinching the shootout winner, and Nikita Tolopilo delivering a flawless performance in the skills competition. The Canucks achieved what they hadn’t all season: overcoming a multi-goal deficit in the third period.
“Going through a losing streak is tough mentally,” Rossi shared after the victory. “Winning is a huge relief for all of us. It feels incredible.”
Rossi has been on the rise for the Canucks, and tonight felt like a breakout moment. His line, featuring Liam Öhgren and Brock Boeser, was in sync throughout the game. They were responsible for the first goal, credited to Boeser, and didn’t allow a single shot attempt against them in the opening period.
“It’s clicking, game by game,” Rossi noted. “The chemistry is building. Everyone’s bringing something unique to the line.”
Rossi was everywhere, notching three points and showcasing the talent that made him a top-10 pick in 2020. His defensive efforts were highlighted by a crucial breakup in overtime. The 5-foot-9 center also demonstrated his grit, taking a double-minor for roughing after a confrontation with Predators forward Tyson Jost.
He was on the ice for one of the most joyous celebrations of the Canucks’ season.
When Hronek scored the equalizer, the emotion was palpable as Drew O’Connor and Zeev Buium embraced him.
“That celebration was huge for us,” Rossi remarked.
“It’s important,” Hronek added about the emotional celebration. “We have a lot of young guys, and it’s crucial for them to experience wins and understand what it takes every game.”
Following DeBrusk’s shootout winner, Zeev Buium and defenseman Elias Pettersson celebrated exuberantly with Tolopilo.
“The fans were amazing, supporting us throughout,” said Foote after the rare home victory. “You could feel the energy on the bench. It gave us a push.”
In a season where Rogers Arena has often been a challenging venue for the Canucks, Thursday night was a refreshing change. For one evening, the exhilarating feeling of victory permeated this young Canucks team.