5 keys to victory for the Vancouver Canucks in game five against the Nashville Predators

Kobe Bryant once said, “What’s there to be happy about? Job’s not finished. Job finished? I don’t think so.”

As the Vancouver Canucks head into Rogers Arena with the opportunity to close out the season of the Nashville Predators in Game 5, here are five keys to securing victory:

1. Defensive Structure

As mentioned by coach Rick Tocchet, the Canucks’ ability to maintain a solid defensive structure has been instrumental in their success throughout the season. In Game 3, despite facing relentless pressure from the Predators, Vancouver’s defence remained determined, limiting high-quality scoring chances and blocking shots effectively.

“What I’m seeing is that our strength lies in our defensive stability, particularly our solid D-zone coverage throughout the year. When our offensive game isn’t clicking, we can rely on this aspect to keep us in the game and limit the opposition’s chances. However, offensively, we seem a bit hesitant. The opponents are putting pressure on us, and instead of taking the initiative, some players are hesitating, almost freezing up. We need to change that mentality. When there’s pressure, we should be charging ahead, not backing down. They’re coming at us with three players on the puck, everywhere on the ice. We need quicker thinking, faster footwork, and more decisiveness with the puck. If we can do that, we’ll create opportunities. I’m not singling anyone out, but if a few players are mentally slow or sluggish on their feet, it affects the entire unit’s performance. So, we need everyone to sharpen up mentally, think faster, and move their feet with purpose.”

While game 4 was marked as a step back, to continue their defensive dominance in Game 5, the Canucks must prioritize positioning, communication, and disciplined play in their own zone. By closing gaps, clearing rebounds, and supporting their goaltender, they can frustrate the Predators’ offensive efforts and create opportunities to transition into the attack.

2. Elias Pettersson’s Confidence

Elias Pettersson’s offensive contributions have been limited in the playoffs, and he has struggled to find his scoring touch. Simplifying his game and focusing on fundamental skills, such as moving his feet and creating space, can help him break through Nashville’s defence and generate scoring chances for himself and his linemates. Tocchet continues to remain confident in his star centre, noting that Pettersson just needs his confidence and assertiveness on the ice that was so crucial to his success this season.

“He should ease up on overthinking. Just focus on moving your feet. If you move your feet, everything will flow naturally.  Especially against a team like Nashville, if you don’t move, they’ll be on you quick. But if you can evade them with agility, new opportunities will arise. It’s all about mindset, keeping it simple. He shouldn’t be juggling ten thoughts.”

All it will take is one confidence boost, and the trio of Hoglander, Pettersson, Mikheyev could be rolling once again. 

3. Maintaining Pressure

Sustaining offensive pressure will be crucial for the Canucks to dictate the tempo of Game 5 and control the flow of play. Despite facing challenges from the Predators’ aggressive forecheck and physicality, Vancouver must maintain composure and execute their game plan with precision.