In a thrilling final pre-season matchup, forward Arshdeep Bains showcased his skills in hopes of securing a spot on the Vancouver Canucks roster as the NHL regular season approaches. With a goal on the power play and an assist in a 4-1 victory over the Edmonton Oilers, Bains left it all on the ice.
After the game, Bains expressed the sentiment of desperation felt by all players vying for a coveted position on the team. “I think there is a lot of desperation,” he remarked. “Everybody wants to make the team. There’s only so many spots. Everyone is giving their all.”
The Canucks, led by a standout performance from Jake DeBrusk with a goal and two assists, displayed a strong offensive presence. Quinn Hughes and Carson Soucy also found the back of the net, while Elias Pettersson contributed with two assists. On the other side, defenceman Evan Bouchard scored the lone goal for the Oilers.
Between the pipes, Vancouver goaltender Arturs Silovs shined, making 28 saves to secure the win. Oilers netminder Stuart Skinner put up a solid effort as well, stopping 22 shots in the losing effort.
As Bains navigates the fierce competition for a roster spot on a team with high expectations following a successful season, he understands the challenges that lie ahead. “Everyone is trying to put their best foot forward,” the Surrey, B.C. native acknowledged. “There’s a lot they want to build on from last year. I want to come in and help.”
With the intensity of pre-season matches behind them, the Canucks now face the task of finalizing their roster before the NHL regular season gets underway. For Bains and others like him, the hope of donning the Canucks jersey come opening night lingers in the air, as they eagerly await the final decision from coaches and management.
