Canucks Game Day: Lekkerimäki and Lankinen Set to Start Against Kings

Vancouver Canucks Game Day Preview

After wrapping up their Black Friday afternoon matchup in the Bay Area, the Vancouver Canucks (10-13-2) head south to face the Los Angeles Kings at Crypto.com Arena. The Canucks hope to bounce back after a rocky outing, aiming to regain momentum in the Pacific Division.

New Faces in the Lineup

Vancouver is expected to receive an offensive boost tonight with the addition of forward Jonathan Lekkerimäki. The young Swedish winger was recently recalled from the AHL’s Abbotsford Canucks and will make his season debut. His speed and shooting ability could provide much-needed energy to the second line.

Goaltender Kevin Lankinen is projected to start in net, giving starter Thatcher Demko a rest. Lankinen, who has made steady progress since joining Vancouver, faces a challenging matchup against a disciplined Kings offense.

“It’s great to see Lekkerimäki get his shot,” said head coach Rick Tocchet. “He’s earned it with his play in Abbotsford. He’s dynamic, and that’s something we can use right now.”

Recent Performance and Team Outlook

The Canucks have had a difficult road stretch, winning only three of their last ten games. Scoring consistency remains an issue, particularly in five-on-five situations. Despite the struggles, Vancouver’s power play ranks among the league’s top ten—an area they hope to exploit against Los Angeles.

Meanwhile, the Kings (14-9-1) come into the match riding a three-game winning streak. They’ve thrived at home, anchored by strong defensive play from Drew Doughty and balanced scoring across their top six forwards.

Expected Lineup

What to Watch

  1. Lekkerimäki’s debut – Can the rookie make an immediate impact?
  2. Special teams battle – Vancouver’s power play vs. Los Angeles’ penalty kill.
  3. Lankinen’s composure – His performance could determine the game’s pace early on.

Puck Drop and Broadcast Info

The game is set to start at 7:30 PM PT and will be broadcast on Sportsnet Pacific and SN650 radio. Vancouver fans will be closely watching whether the lineup changes translate into energy and results on the ice.

“It’s about details and confidence,” said Tocchet. “The effort’s been there, but we need results.”

Author’s Summary: Vancouver looks to regain form as Lekkerimäki debuts and Lankinen starts in net against a red-hot Kings squad aiming for their fourth straight win.

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