Canucks face injuries to Pettersson and Höglander

The Vancouver Canucks faced a rough loss to the New York Rangers, losing 5-3. Their head coach, Rick Tocchet, expressed disappointment not only in the game but in the team's injury situation. Elias Pettersson, the Canucks' top center, was injured during the match. He had been performing better recently, but his injury raises concerns about the team's depth at the center position, especially since they were already missing Filip Chytil due to a concussion. Tocchet said Pettersson’s status for the next game against the New Jersey Devils is doubtful. Pettersson appeared to struggle after a faceoff, but the exact nature of his injury is unclear. He tried to return for a few shifts but did not play in the third period. Nils Höglander also did not return for the third period, despite no apparent issues earlier. The Canucks might need to call up a player from their AHL affiliate, the Abbotsford Canucks, to fill the gaps left by these injuries. Max Sasson and Aatu Räty are potential options. Meanwhile, goalie Kevin Lankinen was dealing with illness during the game, and there are hopes that goaltender Thatcher Demko might return soon from his injury. Overall, the Canucks are facing an injury crisis, which adds pressure as they aim for a playoff spot in the season’s final stretch.