Goaltender Leevi Merilainen makes good on chance with Canucks in win

Vancouver Canucks goaltender Leevi Merilainen has made a strong start to his first season with the team, earning praise for his performance in the team's 4-1 win over the Calgary Flames. Billed as a $205.00 annual subscription, Merilainen made his first start as a Canuck Saturday, stopping 23 shots in the victory. Coach Manny Malhotra praised Merilainen's composure, noting his excellent performance late in the second period when he stopped a Calgary 3-on-1 breakaway.

Merilainen, who was claimed off waivers from the Ottawa Senators, expressed his enthusiasm about the opportunity the Canucks have given him, stating that playing for the first time in a long time felt "good." The Canucks, who trailed 1-0 after the first period, battled back with four goals in the third to secure their second win of the season.

Liam Ohgren, who celebrated his 100th NHL game with a goal and an assist, contributed to the victory, along with Drew O’Connor and Aatu Raty, who scored while the Canucks were shorthanded. Tom Willander and Linus Karlsson each had two assists, while Matt Coronato scored for the Calgary Flames. Devin Cooley made 23 saves for the Flames in the loss.

Merilainen, who was drafted by the Ottawa Senators in the third round in 2020, has shown promise in his limited NHL appearances, posting an 8-3-1 record, a 1.99 GAA, and a .925 save percentage in 12 games with Ottawa.