Vancouver Canucks goaltender Jiri Patera experienced a trial by fire in his first NHL start of the season, surrendering seven goals in a chaotic 8-5 loss to the Florida Panthers on Monday night. The contest was a lopsided affair, with the Panthers dominating in shots (41-15), physical play, and on the scoreboard, despite a late push from the visiting Canucks.
A Goaltender Under Constant Pressure
Thrust into the net on the second night of a back-to-back, Jiri Patera was under siege from the opening puck drop. The 26-year-old netminder, whose career has been marked by instability including being claimed on waivers twice in a week last October, saw his first action since March 26, 2024. With starter Thatcher Demko out week-to-week with a groin strain and Kevin Lankinen needing rest after backstopping the previous two games, the start was Patera's chance to showcase his abilities.
The Panthers, even while missing key players like Matthew Tkachuk and Aleksander Barkov, applied relentless pressure. They held commanding shot advantages of 11-5 after the first period and 26-9 through two, turning the game into a shooting gallery. Patera displayed flashes of his skill with several impressive saves, including a desperate glove stop to deny Mackie Samoskevich on a clear-cut chance. However, he was often left scrambling, committing early, and received minimal defensive support.
Canucks' Rally Falls Short Against Cup Champs
Despite being outplayed for large stretches, the Canucks managed to claw their way back into the game. Elias Pettersson scored two goals, and captain Quinn Hughes added three assists, helping to engineer a comeback that tied the game 5-5 in the third period. The momentum was short-lived, as the aggressive Panthers responded with two goals in a span of just 2:14 to seal the victory.
The two-time defending champions demonstrated their depth and tenacity. Ageless wonder Brad Marchand, 37, was a constant threat and pest, while West Vancouver native Sam Reinhart continued his strong season. The Panthers' direct, physical style overwhelmed the Canucks, who finished their road trip with a 1-1-1 record.
Vancouver Canucks Player Report Cards
Elias Pettersson (A-): Showed no hesitation on his two goals and won the faceoff that led to a power-play tally. He went 9-for-28 in the circle and recorded three blocks.
Quinn Hughes (A-): The offensive catalyst with three assists, giving him 13 helpers in his last six games. He managed one shot on goal and blocked three shots.
Jake DeBrusk (C+): Converted a nice feed from Kiefer Sherwood for his eighth goal of the season, his seventh on the power play. Finished the night with a -3 rating.
Jiri Patera (C-): Made some solid saves but ultimately allowed seven goals on 41 shots. He was often caught flipping and sprawling in the crease, though he received little defensive help in front of him.
The Canucks will now return home to regroup after a taxing road trip, with the health of their goaltending corps remaining a primary concern as they navigate Demko's absence.
