Casey DeSmith saved 32 shots, helping the Vancouver Canucks secure a 3-1 victory over the Edmonton Oilers on Saturday night, strengthening their position as the top team in the Pacific Division.
Tyler Myers, a defenseman for the Canucks, praised the team effort, highlighting their strategy of letting the game unfold naturally rather than forcing plays.
Vancouver’s goals came from Sam Lafferty, Pius Suter, and Dakota Joshua, leading them to win all four matchups against the Oilers this season. With a five-point lead in the division and only two games left in the season, the Canucks are in a strong position.
Despite a goal from Evander Kane, the Oilers couldn’t overcome the Canucks’ lead. Missing their captain Connor McDavid for the third consecutive game due to injury, the Oilers put up a competitive fight but fell short.
Nevertheless, they’ve made significant progress this season, closing a 21-point gap with the Canucks earlier in the year and securing a playoff spot with home-ice advantage.
Lafferty’s goal late in the first period gave the Canucks an early lead, while Suter’s deflection off Myers’ shot extended their advantage in the second period. Despite efforts from the Oilers, including strong performances from Warren Foegele and Zach Hyman, they couldn’t turn the game in their favor.
