Canucks Send Players Back to AHL
Following a disappointing 5–2 defeat against the Vegas Golden Knights, the Vancouver Canucks have decided to send three of their players, Jonathan Lekkerimäki, Victor Mancini, and Nikita Tolopilo, back to the AHL as the team enters the Olympic break. This strategic move allows each player to continue gaining valuable experience on the ice while the NHL takes a pause until February 25.
Player Performances
Jonathan Lekkerimäki had recently been called up to Vancouver after a fruitful stint in the AHL, where he amassed seven goals and four assists in 11 games with the Abbotsford Canucks. During his time with the Canucks, Lekkerimäki contributed by scoring once and participating in first-unit power play opportunities over his last five outings.
Victor Mancini‘s recent contributions to the Canucks have also been notable. He has been shuffled between the NHL and AHL to compensate for injuries impacting the team’s defensemen. After rejoining the Canucks on January 12, Mancini played in four games before returning to Abbotsford, where he recorded a goal and an assist in addition to his two goals and six assists across 24 AHL games this season.
Nikita Tolopilo, filling in for injured goalie Thatcher Demko, has made a mark this season as well, appearing in nine games. His performance includes three wins against three losses and one overtime loss, with a GAA of 3.04 and a commendable .910 save percentage. He nearly achieved his first NHL shutout during a January 29 matchup against the Anaheim Ducks, but due to concussion protocol evaluations, his potential shutout was shared with teammate Kevin Lankinen.
Upcoming Schedule
This re-assignment comes as the Canucks take a break, with their next game against the Winnipeg Jets set for February 25 at 7:00 PM PT. During the hiatus, Lekkerimäki, Mancini, and Tolopilo might take part in up to seven games for the AHL Canucks, with scheduled matches against teams such as the San Jose Barracuda and the Ontario Reign in the coming weeks.
Stay Updated
As the Canucks prepare for their return to NHL action, fans can stay updated by following The Hockey News for the latest insights, player profiles, and team updates.
