Canucks: 3 takeaways from 4-3 comeback win over Columbus

Dec 14, 2021; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks forward Bo Horvat (53) scores the game winning goal on Columbus Blue Jackets goalie Elvis Merzlikins (90) in the third period at Rogers Arena. Vancouver Won 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 14, 2021; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks forward Bo Horvat (53) scores the game winning goal on Columbus Blue Jackets goalie Elvis Merzlikins (90) in the third period at Rogers Arena. Vancouver Won 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports
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Halak bounces back after struggling in the first period

Jaroslav Halak finally has his first win as a Canuck, but that didn’t appear to be the case early on.

The 36-year-old was given the nod between the pipes on Tuesday night, suiting up for his first contest since facing off against the Boston Bruins on November 28th.

It was a tough start for Halak, who allowed three goals in the opening 12 minutes, including a weak wrister from Eric Robinson that snuck through five-hole.

Fortunately, Halak didn’t let his first period troubles phase him.

The veteran netminder was able regain his focus and composure heading into the second period, making sure to give his team a fighting chance for a comeback.

Halak wasn’t as busy in the final 40 minutes, only facing 10 shots from Columbus during that time, but still had to be perfect for his team. Halak also had to make some key saves late in the contest, including a point-blank powerplay chance from Boone Jenner with just seconds left.

With the win, Halak was able to improve his record to 1-4-1 with a 2.88 GA and .905 SV%, and will be looking to add more to his win column as the season progresses.

Other notes:

  • Elias Pettersson notched his second even strength goal in as many games, burying yet another nifty pass from Conor Garland in tight. Pettersson, who once again skated with Garland and Vasily Podkolzin, has appeared more and more confident every each game under the new coaching regime. Good thing he went back to his old stick, huh?

The Canucks will be back on the road on Thursday night, facing off against the San Jose Sharks at SAP Centre. Puck drop is set for 7:30pm PST.

What are your thoughts from Tuesday’s 4-3 comeback win? Make sure to drop a comment below!