Kiefer Sherwood made history on Monday when his first NHL hat trick powered Vancouver Canucks to an emphatic 3-1 win against Colorado Avalanche in their game played Monday evening, with goaltender Thatcher Demko making 30 saves and helping secure this decisive triumph – moving their record over their last five matches to 2-2-1!
Efforts by Avalanche Not Enough
Valeri Nichushkin scored with only 46 seconds remaining but could not turn around Colorado Avalanche’s fortunes in this matchup against New Jersey Devils. Mackenzie Blackwood made 22 saves throughout the evening in goal while Sherwood made headlines by scoring even-strength goals, short-handed goals, and an empty-net goal in one evening; pushing his season total up to 11 while setting a personal best!
Rantanen’s Scoring Run Continues
Mikko Rantanen of the Avalanche extended his point streak to six games, earning an assist and accumulating three goals and nine assists during this streak.
Highlights from the Game
Canucks Rally After Critique from Coach
Following a harsh 5-1 loss to Boston and subsequent criticism from Coach Rick Tocchet, the Canucks bounced back strongly. Tocchet had called out certain players for their lack of emotional investment in the game. The team responded with a more physical and disciplined approach against the Avalanche, successfully killing off four penalties, blocking 18 shots, and executing 30 hits.
Scoring Woes for the Avalanche
The Avalanche, known for their scoring prowess, was held to just one goal. This performance followed a period where they had managed four wins in five games, outscoring opponents 18-9 prior to this matchup.
Turning Point
A critical moment came when Sherwood scored a short-handed goal, intercepting a puck from Nathan MacKinnon and then breaking away to score, extending the Canucks’ lead to 2-0 late in the second period.
Crucial Statistic
The Avalanche struggled with their power play once again on Saturday night, failing to capitalize on any of four opportunities given them and thus increasing their recent power play drought to one for 19 over seven games.
Looking Ahead
The Avalanche are scheduled to play their next matchup against San Jose on Thursday while Vancouver travels west for their two-game road trip starting with Utah on Wednesday.