Canucks take 1-0 series lead to begin NHL playoffs

For the first time in nine years, there was playoff hockey in Vancouver and game one against the Nashville Predators did not disappoint.

The towels were flying at Rogers Arena as the Canucks skated onto the ice to the tune of U2’s ‘Where the Streets Have No Name’ and battled to a 4-2 victory.

What a scene in Vancouver. 📸 #StanleyCup

🇺🇸: @espn ➡️ https://t.co/FmPv8M6v1l
🇨🇦: @Sportsnet or stream on Sportsnet+ ➡️ https://t.co/sEijvXhbA1 pic.twitter.com/7CosHj5JtJ

— NHL (@NHL) April 22, 2024

The Canucks were down 2-1 halfway through the third period when Pius Suter tipped the equalizer into the net off a Quinn Hughes’ shot.

While everyone was still standing and cheering, Dakota Joshua gave the Canucks the lead 12 seconds later, the two fastest goals in Canucks playoff history.

Give us all the hugs please. 🫶 pic.twitter.com/jywowuxtnL

— Y - Vancouver Canucks (@Canucks) April 22, 2024

Before the Canucks hit the ice on Sunday, the Winnipeg Jets opened their series at home against the Colorado Avalanche.

The Jets managed to hold on for the 7-6 win with the help of four unanswered goals in the middle of the game.

The atmosphere in Winnipeg was exhilarating as the stands were filled with a sea of white jerseys and shirts.

Earlier in the day, the Florida Panthers defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning while the New York Rangers won their match against the Washington Capitals.

There are four playoff games on deck for Monday as the Edmonton Oilers open their series against the LA Kings and the Maple Leafs play their second match against Boston.