Canucks Look to Continue Hot Streak Against Streaking Kings

The Vancouver Canucks head to Los Angeles on Thursday night to take on the Los Angeles Kings in a clash of two of the hottest teams in the Pacific Division. The Canucks (6-2-3) are riding a two-game winning streak and looking to make it three in a row, while the Kings (8-3-3) have won three of their last four games.

“This is a big game for both teams as they jockey for position early in the season,” said sports analyst Michael Johnson. “The Canucks are playing their best hockey in years, while the Kings are a revelation this season.”

The Canucks are coming off a dominant 5-1 win over the Anaheim Ducks on Tuesday night. Brock Boeser continued his strong start to the season, scoring a goal and adding an assist. Throughout his career, Boeser has proven to be a formidable opponent for the Kings, amassing 17 goals and 6 assists in just 20 games against LA.

“Boeser is a guy that the Kings are going to have to focus on shutting down,” said Kings head coach Jim Hiller. “He’s a dynamic player who can score in a variety of ways, so we’ll need to be aware of him every time he’s on the ice.”

On the other hand, the play of veteran forward Anze Kopitar has buoyed the Kings. The 37-year-old has 5 goals and 10 assists so far this season and will be a key player to watch on Thursday night.

“Kopitar is still the heart and soul of this Kings team,” said Johnson. “Even at his age, he continues to produce at an elite level and make those around him better. He’s going to be a tough matchup for the Canucks’ defense.”

One key injury note for the Canucks is the absence of goaltender Thatcher Demko, who is still recovering from an injury. In his place, Kevin Lankinen has been solid, posting a 5-2-2 record with a 2.64 goals-against average. For the Kings, the injury news is a bit better, as forward Arthur Kaliyev has resumed skating and is nearing a return to the lineup after suffering a broken collarbone in September.

“Getting Kaliyev back would be a huge boost for the Kings,” said Hiller. “He’s a young, talented player who can provide a spark offensively. We’re hopeful he’ll be back in the lineup sooner rather than later.”

Thursday’s game promises to be an exciting affair between two teams that have their sights set on a deep playoff run. The Canucks will be looking to continue their strong start, while the Kings will be aiming to solidify their position atop the Pacific Division.

“This is the kind of game that hockey fans live for,” said Johnson. “You’ve got two talented teams that are playing some outstanding hockey right now. It should be a fantastic showdown.”