Fri Dec 20 03:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Canucks Look to Rebound Against Pacific-Leading Golden Knights

**Las Vegas, NV** – The Vancouver Canucks will aim to bounce back from a 3-2 overtime loss to the Utah Grizzlies when they face the Pacific Division-leading Vegas Golden Knights on Thursday night. The game marks the first of four meetings between the two teams this season.

After a short two-game road trip, the Canucks are hoping for a strong performance against a Golden Knights team boasting a 20-8-3 record and winners of five of their last six games. Last season, the two teams split their season series.

The Canucks received encouraging news on the injury front, with Linus Karlsson and Phil Di Giuseppe set to make their NHL debuts this season after recovering from injuries and performing well in the AHL. Forward Dakota Joshua also continues to build his form, scoring his second goal in five games following his recovery from surgery. Coach Rick Tocchet praised Joshua’s recent performance as a positive step.

Goaltender Thatcher Demko, showing signs of regaining his top form, is expected to be backed up by Kevin Lankinen, who recently battled the flu but is expected to start Thursday. Lankinen, tied for the league lead with three shutouts this season, will be aiming to maintain his strong performance.

Among the Canucks’ top performers over the last five games are Quinn Hughes (5 assists), Kiefer Sherwood (3 goals), and Danton Heinen, Max Sasson, and Brock Boeser (3 points each).

Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. PT. The game will be televised on Sportsnet and broadcast on Sportsnet 650 and the Sportsnet Radio Network.

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