Canucks Struggle in Loss, Face Vegas Tuesday

It's April 5th, this is NHL News Today, AI-powered updates on your team.

I'm Corey, with the story.

Vancouver Canucks start a strong with respect, honoring Evander Cain for his 1000 NHL game

before facing Utah Mammoth at Rodgers Arena.

But the celebration faded fast as Utah's offense exploded for a 7-4 win,

leaving Vancouver still winless in six tries against them since they joined the league.

Linus Croson stepped up big in his own 100th career game, scoring twice to give the Canucks some spark.

He grabbed the loose puck for a backhand in the first, and tipped one home in the second to tie things briefly,

showing why coaches trust him for key minutes.

Brought Bozer hit a franchise milestone too, notching an assist to reach 478 points,

and tie Pavel Bore for eighth all time, with the Canucks.

Their power play stayed hot, going two for two, including Jake DeBrusque's 19th goal, his 16th on the man advantage.

Defensive woes told the real story though, with Vancouver leaking seven goals and getting caught on too many odd man rushes.

At home, it's been rough.

They've won just eight and lost 26 in regulation, turning Rodgers Arena into anything but a fortress.

Now they pivot quick to Tuesday's home clash with Vegas Golden Knights, a disciplined squad that could expose those gaps even more.

If the Canucks tighten up at even strength and keep the power play rolling, they might snack some late momentum.