Vancouver Canucks’ goalie Kevin Lankinen is taking each day as it comes as he adjusts to life with the team.
The 25-year-old Finnish goaltender was signed by the Canucks in October 2021 as a free agent. Lankinen had previously played for the Chicago Blackhawks, where he made his NHL debut in 2020.
Lankinen’s journey to the NHL has been a long and challenging one. He was drafted by the Blackhawks in 2013, but spent several years playing in the Finnish and Swedish leagues before finally making his way to North America.
Now, Lankinen is embracing the opportunity to play for the Canucks and is determined to make the most of it.
“I’m just taking it day by day,” Lankinen said in an interview with CTV News. “I’m trying to learn as much as I can from the coaches and my teammates, and just trying to improve every day.”
Lankinen’s positive attitude and work ethic have not gone unnoticed by his teammates and coaches.
“He’s a great guy to have in the locker room,” said Canucks’ captain Bo Horvat. “He’s always working hard and pushing himself to be better. It’s been great having him on the team.”
Canucks’ head coach Travis Green also praised Lankinen’s dedication and skill on the ice.
“He’s a very talented goaltender,” Green said. “He’s got great instincts and he’s always looking to improve. We’re excited to have him on our team.”
Lankinen’s hard work has paid off on the ice as well. In his first game with the Canucks, he made 25 saves and helped the team secure a 3-2 win over the Edmonton Oilers.
But Lankinen knows that he still has a lot to learn and is focused on continuing to improve his game.
“I’m just trying to stay humble and keep working hard,” Lankinen said. “I know I have a lot to learn and I’m just trying to soak up as much knowledge as I can from the experienced players and coaches.”
As Lankinen settles into his new role with the Canucks, he is grateful for the opportunity and is determined to make the most of it.
“I’m living my dream right now,” Lankinen said. “I’m just taking it one day at a time and trying to make the most of this amazing opportunity.”
