Kevin Lankinen Sets NHL Record with Perfect Shootout Performance

The Vancouver Canucks’ goaltender, Kevin Lankinen, has made headlines this season by achieving a remarkable feat in the NHL. On October 26, 2023, he secured his second victory of the season in a shootout against the St. Louis Blues, further solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s best in this high-pressure situation.

Lankinen’s performance in shootouts has been nothing short of extraordinary. He remains perfect, having stopped all seven shots faced this season. This achievement has placed him at the top of the NHL record books, boasting the best shootout save percentage in league history for goalies with a minimum of ten games played. Over the course of his NHL career, Lankinen has successfully blocked 38 of 44 shootout attempts, showcasing his skill and composure.

His teammate, Jake DeBrusk, praised Lankinen’s dedication to practice, stating, “He’s a guy who always wants shootouts. He practices it a lot.” This training seems to pay off, as Lankinen’s ability to perform in these critical moments has become a crucial asset for the Canucks.

Canucks’ Shootout Success and Historical Context

Lankinen is not alone in his shootout prowess. Eddie Lack, a former Canucks goaltender, ranks fifth all-time in shootout save percentage. Current player Thatcher Demko is also statistically among the best active goalies in shootouts. Adam Foote, an assistant coach for the Canucks, commented on their preparation, saying, “They study the shooters, they study the game. It’s no fluke that he did what he did tonight.”

The Canucks, along with the Ottawa Senators and Philadelphia Flyers, are among the few teams this season with more than one shootout win. This trend emphasizes their effectiveness in this aspect of the game, especially given their overall performance issues, including a middling record and challenges in goal-scoring.

As of now, the Canucks have achieved five shootout wins dating back to last season, which ties them for the fifth-most in the NHL. This success in shootouts could be a vital advantage for the team as the season progresses, providing a glimmer of hope amidst their struggles.

The combination of Lankinen’s remarkable skill and the team’s shootout strategy may well be a key factor in their competitive edge this season, allowing them to capitalize on the skills competition that often determines game outcomes.