The Vancouver Canucks survived a late-game surge from the Washington Capitals, securing a 4-3 victory on Sunday. The Canucks established an early lead, scoring three goals in the first period, which ultimately proved to be the difference.

Vancouver came out strong, with Elias Pettersson scoring just 59 seconds into the game. Tyler Myers followed up with his 100th career goal, and Kiefer Sherwood added another, putting the Canucks ahead 3-0 before the first intermission. Teddy Blueger extended the lead early in the second period, making it 4-0.

However, the Capitals mounted a comeback attempt in the latter half of the game. Ryan Leonard scored on a power play in the second period, and Jakob Chychrun and John Carlson added goals in the third, narrowing the score to 4-3. Despite the Capitals' efforts, the Canucks managed to hold on to their lead and secure the win. Chychrun had a final opportunity to tie the game but was unable to convert.

The Canucks' victory snapped the Capitals' four-game winning streak. Prior to this game, Washington had only allowed eight goals in their first five games.

Vancouver played without forward Brock Boeser, who was absent for personal reasons. Jonathan Lekkerimaki took Boeser's place in the lineup. During the game, Vancouver also lost Filip Chytil and Jonathan Lekkerimaki to injuries. Tom Wilson of the Capitals delivered a heavy hit to Chytil in the first period, which resulted in Chytil leaving the game. The hit was reviewed but deemed legal.

Thatcher Demko was in goal for the Canucks, while Charlie Lindgren started for the Capitals. Lindgren had a shutout in his previous start against the New York Rangers.

The Canucks are now 4-2-0 for the season, while the Capitals are 4-2-0. This was the first of two meetings between the Canucks and Capitals this season, with the next game scheduled for January 21 in Vancouver.