What does it mean for the power play during the stretch drive, where every game is a must win in the team’s quest to return to the playoffs?
It wasn’t the shot heard around the world, but the replay was seen around the NHL universe.
It not only ended a career low 15-game drought with just his 12th of a troubling NHL season, it was another indication that the extra work the centre has been putting in before and after practice is starting to pay off.
His stride looks stronger, level of engagement is higher and dedication to improving his faceoff percentage was evident last Wednesday. He won 20 of 25 draws in a 3-2 win over the Anaheim Ducks.
“He’s not catching it and looking around. He knows if the coverage is low, he’s going to take two steps and rip it. Or, if a guy is in his face, he’ll move it around the pressure and give it to someone. And he keeps working on those reps.”
Pettersson, who had a career-high 13 power-play goals last season, doesn’t get enough credit for his play without the puck. His diligence on the back check brings belief that the commitment is also going to present more chances at even strength.
“I’m obviously not perfect, and it hasn’t been my best season, but I’m trying to get better every day,” he said.
Without the captain wheeling and dealing, putting the opposition on its heels, darting down low or circling the net to look for best options, and unloading a heavier and more accurate shot, there must be an alternative.
A hammer is always an imposing weapon. Even in today’s game, where it’s often a man advantage mosh-pit down low to set screens, tip pucks and fish for rebounds, the one-timer is like dagger. It can be demoralizing for the opposition and invigorating for the guy pulling the trigger.
The Canucks rank 16th at 22.5 per cent efficiency. And with 19 games remaining after facing the Dallas Stars on Sunday, their previous 19 games are somewhat encouraging. The Canucks went 13-for-51 at 25.6 per cent. And even in the eight-game absence of Hughes, they were 6-for-26 at 23 per cent.
Here’s what the Canucks are facing the remainder of this week:
Canucks vs. Canadiens
TV: Sportsnet Pacific. Radio: Sportsnet 650
Why watch: Younger, faster, fabulous Habs
The Canadiens didn’t hold a fire sale at the trade deadline. It speaks to committing to a roster that has the club in playoff contention with a fifth-ranked power play. They’re only mid-pack at even strength. “It (deadline) was stressful, but it’s a special group,” said winger Joel Armia. “We showed with our game what we can do. We’re having a lot of fun.”
Who to watch: Left winger Cole Caufield
The mighty mite has formed a dynamic duo with Nick Suzuki and their chemistry is obvious. Caufield, 23, has struck for 31 goals, including 10 on the power play. And Suzuki’s 46 assists rank 15th overall. Rookie defenceman Lane Hutson, 20, has 49 points and 21 power play assists.
Canucks vs. Flames
When and where: Wednesday, 6 p.m. | Scotiabank Saddledome
TV: Sportsnet Pacific. Radio: Sportsnet 650
Why watch: Better balance, better Flames
Calgary is staying in the playoff-position chase because trade acquisitions of second-line winger Joel Farabee, 25, and third-line centre Morgan Frost, 25, add more potential Andrei Kuzmenko, who was part of a trade package with the Flyers Jan. 30. Farabee has three goals in 13 games and Frost five points (2-3).
Who to watch: Rookie goalie Dustin Wolf
The Calder Trophy race is heating up and Wolf is howling. Blanked the Canadiens on Saturday and is 15-6-2 at home with a 2.17 goals-against average, .928 saves percentage and three shutouts. Will get votes along with Calder favourites Macklin Celebrini, Matvei Michkov and Hutson.
Canucks vs. Blackhawks
TV: Sportsnet Pacific, HNIC. Radio: Sportsnet 650
Why watch: Can lowly Hawks play spoiler?
Meaningful games in March for the NHL’s second-worst team means making it a rough night for those with playoff aspirations. However, the once-feared Hawks have won just seven times away from the United Center this season. The Canucks won 6-3 in Chicago on Oct. 22 and 4-1 at home on Nov. 16.
Who to watch: Centre Connor Bedard
North Vancouver product has leads club with 52 points (17-35), including seven power-play goals and five game-winners, including an overtime effort. Would love to put on a show before family and friends. The Canucks obviously have other ideas. Worth the watch.