Red Wings vs Canucks Picks and Prediction – 2/3/2025

The Detroit Red Wings, with a record of 25-21-5, come into this game riding a three-game win streak, including an impressive 3-2 shootout victory over the Edmonton Oilers. Lucas Raymond has been the driving force offensively, leading the team with 56 points (20 goals, 36 assists), while Dylan Larkin paces the squad with 22 goals. The power play has been one of Detroit’s strengths, converting 27.3% of the time. However, the penalty kill has been a major concern, operating at just 69.8%. In net, Cam Talbot (2.86 GAA, .907 SV%) and Alex Lyon (2.63 GAA, .907 SV%) have shared the workload, with Lyon proving to be the steadier option of late. Hit the ice running with our NHL picks.

Defensively, Detroit has struggled, allowing 3.10 goals per game. They’ve been prone to defensive lapses and will need to tighten up against a Vancouver squad that has multiple scoring threats. Special teams will play a huge role in this matchup, as the Red Wings penalty kill ranks among the league’s worst. Injuries to key players like Patrick Kane, Jeff Petry, and J.T. Compher add another challenge for Detroit, forcing others to step up.

The Vancouver Canucks (23-18-10) have won three of the last five, including a solid 3-1 win over Nashville. Quinn Hughes has been an anchor on both ends, leading the team with 59 points (14 goals, 45 assists), while Jake DeBrusk has been the top goal scorer with 18. Vancouver’s power play has been decent at 22.7%, but the penalty kill (80.1%) gives them a clear edge over Detroit in that category.

Defensively, the Canucks allow 3.14 goals per game, slightly worse than Detroit, but they’ve been better at limiting shots on goal (27.0 SA/G). Goaltending has been a mixed bag, with Kevin Lankinen (2.56 GAA, .906 SV%) handling most of the starts, while Thatcher Demko (3.26 GAA, .873 SV%) has struggled. Vancouver also faces injury concerns, as J.T. Miller, Dakota Joshua, and Noah Juulsen remain out.

Detroit’s offense is clicking, and the power play should be a difference-maker against a Canucks penalty kill that can be exploited. Vancouver’s goaltending situation is shaky, and Detroit’s offensive depth, despite injuries, should give them the edge. Expect a close game, but the Red Wings’ recent form makes them the better pick. Final Score Prediction: Detroit Red Wings win 4-3.