Despite showing flashes of brilliance, the Vancouver Canucks closed out their pre-season with a 4-3 victory over the Seattle Kraken, delivering an entertaining contest that mixed energy with inconsistency.
The game showcased a team still finding its rhythm, with moments of strong execution alongside areas needing refinement ahead of the regular season.
Defensive Transformation for Pettersson
Defenceman Elias Pettersson made a noticeable impact in the contest, appearing more physically imposing than in previous seasons. During training camp in Penticton, observers noted a visible increase in his frame, which he confirmed himself.
“I feel like a couple kilos doesn’t kill me,” Pettersson said with a smile.
Following a challenging 2025-26 campaign, Pettersson and fellow young defencemen Tom Willander and Zeev Buium struggled with the team’s overall defensive instability. Over the summer, they focused on rebuilding their mentality and adapting to new coaching strategies developed during their time in Abbotsford.
The transformation was evident on Saturday as Pettersson played with renewed confidence — combining physicality, smart positioning, and effective puck movement. His performance earned praise not only from fans but also from veteran teammate Brayden Schenn.
“Man, he’s big,” Schenn said of Pettersson. “It’s so easy to play with him.”
Pettersson emphasized the importance of chemistry with his line mates. “He plays so calm,” he noted about Schenn. “We want to close quick and then break out the puck.”
His assertiveness even extended to dropping the gloves when challenged, adding another layer to his evolving skill set.
Sasson Line Delivers Energy and Impact
The line featuring Drew O’Connor, Linus Karlsson, and Max Sasson stood out as one of the most consistent units on the ice. Their aggressive forechecking and cohesive play helped stabilize the team early after a sluggish start.
“We were. I felt the same way,” Karlsson said post-game. “I always like to play with speed.”
Karlsson and Sasson built upon their successful partnership from their championship season in Abbotsford, complementing O’Connor’s puck-handling abilities with timely support and physical presence.
“They can carry the puck a little bit better than me. It’s a good match,” Karlsson explained. “OC is so good at carrying the puck. He’s strong on the puck too…”
Power Play Becomes Game-Changer
Special teams proved pivotal in the win, with the Canucks converting three times during power-play opportunities. Brock Boeser opened the scoring midway through the first period, capitalizing on a well-executed setup involving the Sasson line.
Zeev Buium added a crucial goal for the second unit in the third period, while Boeser sealed the victory with what he humorously referred to as a “butt goal.”
“That’s a pretty pass,” Boeser said of Pettersson’s assist on the game-winner. “We’re starting to click more.”
Although the early stages of the game exposed some rust in their new system, the power play gradually found its cohesion, suggesting significant upside moving forward.
The win provided a positive note heading into the regular season, offering hope that key contributors are peaking at the right time.
