The Seattle Kraken faced off against the Vancouver Canucks in a thrilling NHL matchup on December 28, 2024, at Rogers Arena in Vancouver. In a game packed with excitement, the Kraken secured a dramatic 5-4 overtime victory after overcoming a three-goal deficit in the final minutes of regulation. Here’s a detailed game summary and analysis of the key highlights and standout performances.
Game Summary
- Final Score: Seattle Kraken 5, Vancouver Canucks 4 (OT)
- Location: Rogers Arena, Vancouver
Key Highlights
- Historic Comeback: The Seattle Kraken made NHL history by rallying from a 4-1 deficit with less than five minutes remaining in regulation. This remarkable comeback places them among a select few teams to achieve such a feat.
- Overtime Heroics: Vince Dunn scored the game-winning goal at 2:15 of overtime, marking his second goal of the night. Dunn also contributed an assist, showcasing his offensive prowess.
- Jaden Schwartz’s Clutch Performance: Schwartz scored two pivotal goals, including the equalizer with just 49 seconds left in regulation while the Kraken had an extra attacker on the ice.
- Matty Beniers’ Contribution: Beniers added a critical goal to help Seattle end their five-game losing streak.
Vancouver Canucks’ Performance
Despite the loss, the Vancouver Canucks delivered a strong performance, with several players standing out:
- Brock Boeser: Boeser scored two goals, including a power-play tally, underlining his importance to the Canucks’ offense.
- Jake DeBrusk: Celebrating his 500th NHL game, DeBrusk contributed a goal and an assist, highlighting his experience and skill.
- Conor Garland: Garland ended a 13-game scoring drought with a goal, helping the Canucks build their early lead.
- Thatcher Demko: Vancouver’s goaltender made 24 saves, keeping the team competitive despite the Kraken’s late surge.
How the Kraken Pulled Off the Comeback
Late-Game Scoring Surge
Trailing 4-1 with under five minutes remaining, the Kraken unleashed a scoring barrage:
- Vince Dunn ignited the comeback with his first goal of the game.
- Jaden Schwartz followed with back-to-back goals, including the dramatic equalizer with 49 seconds left in regulation.
Strategic Use of Extra Attacker
Seattle’s decision to pull their goaltender for an extra skater proved decisive. This tactic allowed the Kraken to maintain offensive pressure and ultimately set up Schwartz’s tying goal.
Vince Dunn’s Heroics
Dunn’s game-winning goal in overtime capped a stellar performance. His ability to seize opportunities turned the tide in Seattle’s favor, making him the undisputed star of the game.
Defensive Lapses by Vancouver
The Canucks’ defense faltered in the closing moments, struggling to contain Seattle’s aggressive offensive push. Vancouver head coach Rick Tocchet acknowledged missed opportunities to close out the game, which allowed the Kraken to exploit defensive gaps.
Philipp Grubauer’s Steady Goaltending
Seattle goalie Philipp Grubauer made crucial saves throughout the game, keeping the Kraken within reach until their dramatic rally. His solid performance provided the foundation for the team’s comeback.
Historical Significance
This game marked a historic moment for the Kraken, as they became one of only three teams in NHL history to win a game after trailing by three goals with less than five minutes left in regulation. It also ended their five-game losing streak, providing a significant morale boost.
Next Matchups
- Both teams will face off again on January 3, 2025, in what promises to be another exciting encounter.
- For more about NHL comeback wins, visit the NHL official site.
- Explore a detailed history of NHL milestones at Hockey Reference.
Source: NHL.com, December 28, 2024 Game Recap