Canucks Edge Oilers 4-3 in Overtime as Sherwood Shines

UPDATE: The Vancouver Canucks triumphed over the Edmonton Oilers with a thrilling 4-3 overtime victory on October 29, 2023, at Rogers Arena. Kiefer Sherwood emerged as the hero, scoring two crucial goals, including the game-winner, despite the Canucks playing without their captain, Quinn Hughes, and six other injured players.

This victory is vital for the Canucks (5-5-0) as they navigate a tough start to the season, showcasing resilience against the Oilers (4-5-1). Goalie Thatcher Demko played a pivotal role, delivering 26 saves to keep the team in contention.

The Canucks struck first with a goal from Brock Boeser at 15:42 in the first period. Boeser deftly backhanded the puck past Oilers goalie Calvin Pickard, marking his fourth goal this season. Notably, Boeser has scored nine goals in his last eight encounters with Edmonton.

Vancouver extended their lead to 2-0 just 2:22 into the second period when Elias Pettersson fired a power-play shot past Pickard, following a pass from Filip Hronek. However, a potential third goal by Sherwood was disallowed due to an offside challenge by Edmonton.

Capitalizing on the momentum shift, the Oilers responded with a goal from Leon Draisaitl at 16:32, narrowing the gap to 2-1. Sherwood, however, restored Vancouver’s two-goal lead with a brilliant solo effort, scoring at 19:19 to make it 3-1.

The third period saw a dramatic turn as Jack Roslovic netted his first goal as an Oiler, cutting the deficit to 3-2. The situation escalated when Draisaitl tied the game at 3-3 with just 5:03 remaining, converting a pass from Connor McDavid on a power play.

In a tense 3-on-3 overtime, Sherwood sealed the deal with a tipped shot from Boeser just 1:42 into the extra period, marking his sixth goal of the season. “We bent but didn’t break,” Sherwood stated post-game, emphasizing the importance of this win.

The Canucks are set to host the New York Rangers on Tuesday at 7 p.m. before heading to face the St. Louis Blues on Thursday at 5 p.m.. Boeser concluded the night with two assists, contributing to a total of three points.

This victory serves as a significant confidence boost for the Canucks amidst injury challenges, igniting hopes for a strong season ahead.