Golden Knights top Canucks in John Tortorella's coaching debut

Reilly Smith scored the go-ahead goal late in the second period as Vegas defeated Vancouver 4-2.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 6:10am

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An abstract expressionist painting in neon colors capturing the explosive energy and movement of a professional hockey game, with players' forms dissolving into vibrant brushstrokes.The Golden Knights' victory over the Canucks in Tortorella's coaching debut showcases the high-intensity, fast-paced action of NHL hockey.Vancouver Today

The Vegas Golden Knights defeated the Vancouver Canucks 4-2 in John Tortorella's coaching debut on Monday night. Reilly Smith scored the go-ahead goal late in the second period, and Adin Hill made 22 saves for the Golden Knights, who snapped a three-game losing streak. Evander Kane and Brock Boeser scored for the Canucks, who lost their sixth straight game.

Why it matters

This was Tortorella's first game as the Canucks' head coach after he was hired to replace the fired Bruce Cassidy. The win keeps the Golden Knights in the playoff hunt in the tight Pacific Division race.

The details

Rasmus Andersson, Shea Theodore, and Cole Smith also scored goals for Vegas, which closed to within one point of second-place Edmonton in the Pacific Division. Kevin Lankinen made 30 saves for the Canucks.

  • The game was played on Monday night.
  • Tortorella is starting his 24th season as an NHL head coach.
  • Evander Kane was playing in his 1,000th NHL game.

The players

Reilly Smith

Scored the go-ahead goal late in the second period for the Golden Knights.

Adin Hill

Made 22 saves in goal for the Golden Knights.

John Tortorella

In his coaching debut for the Canucks after being hired to replace Bruce Cassidy.

Evander Kane

Scored a goal for the Canucks in his 1,000th NHL game.

Brock Boeser

Scored a goal for the Canucks.

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What they’re saying

“This was a big win for us to get back on track.”

— Reilly Smith, Golden Knights forward

What’s next

The Golden Knights will look to build on this win as they continue their push for a playoff spot in the tight Pacific Division race. The Canucks will try to end their six-game losing streak in their next game.

The takeaway

Tortorella's coaching debut with the Canucks was spoiled by a strong performance from the Golden Knights, who are still in the hunt for a playoff spot in the competitive Pacific Division.