Home » Sports » NHL » Vancouver Canucks

Canucks’ Halloween party costume hits, and Manny’s simple reason for rolling with Meriläinen: Canucks notebook

Welcome back to the little series on our site where we highlight Vancouver Canucks stories you might have missed! Okay, really, it’s an excuse for me to blog casually instead of having to be a Big J Journalist all the…

By David Quadrelli · Canucks Army

Published: Monday, 2 November 2026 at 6:20 PM

Key Things to Know

Head coach Manny Malhotra stated Leevi Meriläinen is starting in goal because he gives Vancouver a competitive chance to win.
Meriläinen made his fourth straight start on Saturday and has earned two of Vancouver's three victories this season.
Kevin Lankinen currently holds an .812 save percentage and a 6.17 goals-against average.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Vancouver Canucks head coach Manny Malhotra explained that goaltender Leevi Meriläinen continues to start because he gives the team an opportunity to win every game. Saturday marked Meriläinen's fourth consecutive start and his seventh in nine games, with the netminder earning two of the Canucks' three wins this season while posting a 3.31 goals-against average compared to Kevin Lankinen's 6.17.

The article also showcased the Canucks' annual team Halloween party costumes. Notable player outfits included Brock Boeser and Thatcher Demko as Smurfs, Filip Hronek dressed as Finding Nemo characters, Paul Cotter portraying Elvis Presley, and Luke Schenn appearing as Marv from Home Alone alongside various other themed group costumes.

Read the full article on Canucks Army