Canucks go 2-2-0 in first four games, including comeback wins over Oilers and Flames
Vancouver's rebuilding roster has split its opening four-game stretch against Pacific Division heavyweights, with goaltender Kevin Lankinen pointing to a new system taking shape.
Four games into the 2026-27 NHL season, the rebuilding Vancouver Canucks have gone 2-2-0, facing Pacific Division contenders in three of those matchups. The stretch included high-scoring games against the Edmonton Oilers and a 4-1 comeback win over the Calgary Flames on Saturday, before Vancouver fell 3-2 to the Vegas Golden Knights on Sunday despite outshooting Vegas 9-2 in the third period.
Goaltender Kevin Lankinen said the group is building a new system and culture under new management, calling the early signs encouraging even though the product isn't yet complete. Head coach Manny Malhotra said structural improvements are showing up on video, along with better in-game communication and players holding each other accountable.
The Canucks still have work to do defensively, averaging 4.75 goals-against per game — sixth-most in the league — with the 10th-worst penalty kill at 68.8 per cent. Forward Paul Cotter, who has two goals and four assists in his first four games with Vancouver, has recorded a point in every contest so far.
Vancouver finished last season at the bottom of the NHL standings with 58 points, prompting changes to both the front office and coaching staff. Mitch Marner scored his first goal of the season Sunday, tying the game 1-1 in the second period before Vegas pulled ahead.
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