Evander Kane scores in 1,000th NHL game

Canucks forward marks milestone with opening goal against Golden Knights

Mar. 31, 2026 at 2:52am

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An abstract, energetic painting in bright neon colors with rapid brushstrokes, conceptually representing the excitement and emotion of a hockey player scoring a goal.Evander Kane's milestone 1,000th NHL game is celebrated with an explosive, expressionist painting capturing the raw energy of his opening goal.Vancouver Today

Veteran forward Evander Kane scored the opening goal in the first period of his 1,000th career NHL game, helping the Vancouver Canucks take an early lead over the Vegas Golden Knights.

Why it matters

Kane's milestone 1,000th game is a significant achievement, as he becomes just the 356th player in NHL history to reach that career games played mark. The goal also gave the Canucks an early advantage in a key divisional matchup against the Golden Knights.

The details

With the Canucks on a 2-on-1 rush, Kane received a pass and tucked a backhand shot past the Vegas goaltender to open the scoring in the first period. The goal was Kane's 16th of the season and the 404th of his NHL career.

  • Evander Kane scored the opening goal in the first period of the March 31, 2026 game.

The players

Evander Kane

A 34-year-old forward in his 17th NHL season, all with the Vancouver Canucks. Kane is playing in his 1,000th career NHL game, becoming just the 356th player to reach that milestone.

Vancouver Canucks

The NHL team based in Vancouver, British Columbia that Evander Kane has played for his entire professional career.

Vegas Golden Knights

The NHL team based in Las Vegas, Nevada that was playing against the Vancouver Canucks in this game.

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What they’re saying

“Reaching 1,000 games in the NHL is an incredible accomplishment. I'm proud to have spent my entire career with the Canucks organization and to be able to celebrate this milestone with our fans.”

— Evander Kane

What’s next

The Canucks will look to hold on to their early lead and secure a crucial divisional win against the Golden Knights.

The takeaway

Evander Kane's milestone 1,000th NHL game is a testament to his longevity and consistency as a top-level professional hockey player, cementing his status as one of the most durable and accomplished players of his generation.