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Brock Boeser, Vancouver Canucks (Bob Frid-Imagn Images)

Canucks News & Rumours: Boeser, Lankinen, O’Connor & Hronek

Originally posted on The Hockey Writers | By The Old Prof | Last updated Jan 22, 2026 3:50 PM ET

The Vancouver Canucks finally found their footing on Wednesday night, ending an 11-game losing streak with a 4-3 comeback victory over the Washington Capitals at Rogers Arena. Down 2-0 early, the Canucks relied on grit and timing to claw back. Brock Boeser and Evander Kane scored to tie the game after one, and the second period belonged to Drew O’Connor and Filip Hronek, who pushed Vancouver ahead for good. Kevin Lankinen stopped 29 shots, keeping the comeback alive and giving the team confidence it desperately needed.

It wasn’t just a win; it was a release valve. The Canucks had struggled to find rhythm at home all season, winning just once since Dec. 6 before Wednesday. Now, after a shaky start and a season that tested patience, the team showed flashes of the kind of hockey it can play when composure and effort meet execution. The 4-3 result against a Capitals team still dangerous in the standings proved the Canucks can answer the bell — even when the weight of history and a long losing streak hangs over them.

Item One: Brock Boeser: Scoring, Assisting, and Leading the Comeback

Boeser reminded everyone why he’s so vital to this lineup. He scored and set up Vancouver’s first tying goal, snapping a short goal drought and showing leadership through effort and composure. His willingness to chase pucks, engage physically, and drive the play helped spark the team’s comeback from an early 2-0 deficit to a full 4-3 win.

This was Boeser’s second multi-point game of January, and across 11 games this month, he’s tallied two goals and five assists while maintaining a steady second-line role. Over 48 games this season, he has 11 goals, 24 points, 107 shots on net, 29 hits, and 20 blocked shots. His minus-29 rating doesn’t tell the full story — it reflects a team in transition, but on nights like Wednesday, his influence is impossible to ignore. Boeser’s steady, workmanlike contributions gave the Canucks the lift they needed to finally snap the losing streak.

Item Two: Kevin Lankinen Was Calm in the Eye of the Storm

Lankinen gave the Canucks exactly what they needed: stability. After surrendering two power-play goals in the first 10 minutes, he settled in, stopping 29 of 32 shots for the night. His calm presence let Vancouver chip away at the deficit and protect the lead.

It wasn’t just about stopping pucks — Lankinen absorbed Washington’s pressure, allowing teammates to take calculated risks and push offensively. After a rough six-game stretch with a .890 save percentage, this was a reminder of how a goaltender’s composure can turn close games into wins. His performance gives Vancouver a foundation to build on as they host the Devils on Friday.

Item Three: O’Connor and Hronek Step Up When It Counts

O’Connor and Hronek were the catalysts for Vancouver’s second-period surge. O’Connor finished a quick pass from David Kampf for the go-ahead goal, while Hronek jumped into the rush for a 2-on-1 finish. These contributions showed the Canucks’ depth matters — it isn’t just the top-line stars making a difference.

O’Connor scored in back-to-back games after a nine-game drought, added two hits, and went plus-2. Playing on the second line seems to be helping his production, even without getting time on the power play. Hronek’s goal highlighted his timing and willingness to join the rush, proving how a defenseman can tilt a close game. Together, these players swung momentum and showed the Canucks have contributors beyond the obvious stars.

What’s Next for the Canucks?

Wednesday’s victory gives Vancouver a chance to reset. The 11-game slide is over, but the team knows consistency is the next challenge. Boeser, Lankinen, O’Connor, and Hronek showed what’s possible when effort, timing, and depth meet opportunity.

The Canucks will host the New Jersey Devils on Friday. Momentum is fragile in January, and Vancouver will need the same commitment and energy to string results together. The pieces are there; it’s now about keeping the focus, building confidence, and proving this comeback isn’t just a one-night story.