Sherwood hat trick, Demko’s 30 saves, and more: 3 reasons why Vancouver Canucks won 3-1 over Colorado Avalanche

The Vancouver Canucks defeated the Colorado Avalanche 3-1 at Rogers Arena on Monday night. With the win, the Canucks bounced back following a 5-1 loss at the hands of the Boston Bruins on Saturday night.

Kiefer Sherwood provided all the offense the Canucks needed, notching his first career hat trick. Meanwhile, Valeri Nichushkin scored for the Colorado Avalanche in the losing effort.

So, here’s a look at the three key reasons why the Vancouver Canucks defeated the Colorado Avalanche on Monday night.

3 reasons why Vancouver Canucks defeated Colorado Avalanche

#3 The Canucks penalty kill was perfect

The Vancouver Canucks penalty kill was perfect on the night, going 4-for-4. In particular, they killed off a big penalty in the third period with the game 2-0.

A Tyler Myers interference call on Nathan MacKinnon set up the best chance for Colorado to tie the game in the third. However, the Canucks held on.

It’s worth pointing out that Kiefer Sherwood notched a shorthanded marker to game the game 2-0 late in the second period. That would be the game-winning goal on the night.

The solid penalty kill was one aspect of a good all-around game for Vancouver. Despite being outshot 31-25, the Canucks played a more physical style, outhitting the Avs 30-19, blocking more shots 18-8, and winning the majority of draws.

#2 Depth scoring was huge

The third line, headlined by Kiefer Sherwood’s hat trick, was huge in picking up the lack of scoring from the top six. Even though Elias Pettersson got the game’s third star, it was Sherwood who came through as the star.

In particular, Sherwood was key down the stretch as he added an empty-netter to seal the victory and record his first career hat trick.

Meanwhile, his linemates Pius Suter and Danton Heinen also recorded assists on Sherwood’s opening goal in the first period. Sherwood’s performance is highly encouraging as the Canucks have lacked scoring beyond their top six.

#1 Thatcher Demko was fantastic

Thatcher Demko’s return was welcome for the Vancouver Canucks, even if Kevin Lankinen has been solid in his absence. Demko made 30 saves on the night, earning the win and having his first strong start of the season.

Demko had been somewhat unsteady in his first couple of starts, giving up nine goals in two losses in his first two appearances. Nevertheless, the real Demko showed up on Monday night, foiling the Avalanche and preserving the win in a close game.

The Canucks will look to continue building momentum as they take on the Utah Hockey Club on Tuesday night at the Delta Center in what looks to be a highly entertaining game.