Vancouver Canucks vs Columbus Blue Jackets Picks and Predictions December 6th 2024

Canucks Look to Treat Home Like Road as Blue Jackets Visit

The Vancouver Canucks aim to replicate their road success at home against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

The Vancouver Canucks return to Rogers Arena on Friday, feeling optimistic despite a narrow overtime loss in their last outing. Their upcoming matchup with the Columbus Blue Jackets marks the beginning of a crucial six-game homestand — a chance to solidify their position in the standings.

A Road Warrior Mentality for Home Success

The Canucks have been formidable on the road this season, boasting a stellar 10-2-1 record. However, their performance at home (3-5-3) leaves much to be desired. Their recent road trip offered plenty of positives, culminating in a 4-1-1 mark, even with the 3-2 overtime loss to the Minnesota Wild.

Head coach Rick Tocchet emphasized the importance of starting strong, encouraging the team to avoid playing catch-up.

“We can’t wait for the second period to get going, it’s a mental thing,” Tocchet said.

Goaltender Kevin Lankinen echoed the sentiment, emphasizing consistency in their game, regardless of the venue.

“Just stick with it,” Lankinen said. “Nothing really changes. It’s the same puck, the same game wherever you play. I enjoy playing here and believe we can get on a real roll.”

With nine of their next 11 games at home, the Canucks have a golden opportunity to build momentum in front of their fans.

Potential Boosts on the Horizon

The Canucks could soon receive reinforcements in the form of key players. Top goaltender Thatcher Demko, sidelined all season with a knee injury, is back practicing with the team and nearing a return.

“He’s looked really good in practice,” Tocchet shared. “He’s in a good space right now. And when he’s ready to go, I’m all for it.”

Additionally, forward J.T. Miller has rejoined the team after taking personal leave, further bolstering the lineup.

Blue Jackets’ Struggles Continue

The Columbus Blue Jackets head to Vancouver fresh off a tough 6-3 loss to the Edmonton Oilers on Thursday. A promising start unraveled as they conceded four goals in the second period. Despite opening the scoring, they couldn’t contain Edmonton’s offensive firepower.

“We started correctly, we played hard, we played well,” Blue Jackets coach Dean Evason said.

The turning point came when an unsuccessful challenge gave Edmonton a power play, leading to a quick two-goal deficit.

“That happens. We obviously had a different opinion on what happened there,” said forward Cole Sillinger, who recorded a goal and an assist. “Unfortunately it didn’t go our way, but that’s part of the game.”

Penalty Kill Woes

One glaring issue for Columbus is their penalty kill. Opponents have netted power-play goals in 11 straight games, with 16 conceded during that span.

“If you can’t kill ’em, you better not get in [the penalty box],” Evason said.

The Blue Jackets will need to address this issue quickly if they hope to turn things around.

Check out NHL Metropolitan Division Odds & Predictions for detailed insights and analysis.

Key Matchup

The Canucks’ home ice advantage and the potential return of key players like Demko and Miller set the stage for a compelling contest. Meanwhile, the Blue Jackets must shore up their penalty kill and stay disciplined to avoid giving Vancouver unnecessary opportunities.

For fans, this game represents a critical juncture for both teams — a battle between a team aiming to establish dominance at home and another desperate to bounce back on a challenging road trip.