Canucks vs Golden Knights Picks and Prediction – 12/20/2024

The Vancouver Canucks (16-9-5) are set to face the Vegas Golden Knights (20-8-3) on December 19, 2024, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Puck drop is scheduled for 10:00 PM ET. This Pacific Division matchup features two teams vying for supremacy, with the Golden Knights leading the division and the Canucks looking to close the gap. Get in on the action with our free NHL picks.

The Canucks are coming off a 3-1 victory against the Colorado Avalanche, concluding a six-game homestand with a 3-2-1 record. Goaltender Thatcher Demko, recently returned from a long-term knee injury, posted 30 saves to secure his first win of the season. Quinn Hughes has been running the show with 35 points. Offensively, the Canucks average 3.16 goals per game, with a power play conversion rate of 23.3%. Defensively, they allow 3.03 goals per game. 

The Golden Knights have been in excellent form, winning nine of their last twelve games. They are coming off a 3-2 victory over the Minnesota Wild, where forward Victor Olofsson scored twice. Goaltender Adin Hill, expected to start against Vancouver, holds a 13-5-2 record with a 2.78 GAA and a .899 save percentage. Vegas's offense averages 3.45 goals per game, ranking sixth in the NHL, while their defense allows 2.94 goals per game. Their power play operates at a 27.6% success rate, reflecting their offensive efficiency. 

Considering the Golden Knights' recent form and home-ice advantage, they are favored to win this matchup. The Canucks, playing on the second night of a back-to-back, may face fatigue, potentially impacting their performance. We like the Golden Knights to get things done with a victory on their home ice against a tough opponent 4-2.