Kiefer Sherwood’s Impact on Canucks Goes Beyond His Hat Trick

Kiefer Sherwood was one of the Vancouver Canucks’ key depth signings this summer. Since then, he has quickly become one of the most important players in the team’s recent success. The former Nashville Predator has impressed with his offensive contributions, despite averaging just 14:30 of ice time. Last night, Sherwood scored a natural hat trick, including a shorthanded goal in a 3-1 victory against the Colorado Avalanche.

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Here are some of the areas where the Sherwood has impacted the Canucks.

Sherwood Has Broken Out Offensively

Sherwood’s resurgence can be traced back to a conversation with head coach Rick Tocchet over the summer. Tocchet recalled calling Sherwood one Sunday, with the winger telling him, “Hey, I’ve got some offense in me.” That confidence has paid off.

He has also become a more versatile player, earning increased responsibility. In addition to contributing on the power play, Sherwood has spent time in the top-six forward group. So far, he ranks second on the team in goals with 11 and is on pace to shatter his previous career highs with projections of 30 goals and 46 points. Sherwood also leads the team in shots on goal per 60 minutes, showcasing his ability to generate offensive opportunities consistently. The adaptable forward has demonstrated that he can be effective in any role or on any forward line.

He’s Adding to His Game Defensively

For the first time in his career, Sherwood is being utilized on the penalty kill, and so far, he has excelled in the role. He is currently the third-most-used forward for Vancouver when shorthanded, helping to fill the void left by the offseason departures of Elias Lindholm and Ilya Mikheyev in free agency. Sherwood has been reliable with puck management, maintaining a 0.69 giveaway-to-takeaway ratio, further showcasing his effectiveness on the penalty kill.

Sherwood Brings a Physical Element to the Canucks

Known for his physical, hard-nosed style, Sherwood leads the NHL in hits with 184—58 more than the next closest player, Marc Kastelic. Despite his aggressive play, he has maintained impressive discipline, accumulating just 12 penalty minutes this season. His physicality makes him a constant presence on the ice, particularly in the bottom-six forward role, where he has traditionally excelled. A force on the forecheck, Sherwood brings energy and intensity to any line he’s placed on.

This is an area where the Predators are said to miss Sherwood the most. Known as a “gamer” who was loved for his hard-nosed style of play, his departure has reportedly had a significant impact on the team’s chemistry. Ryan Rishaug recently noted that a source told him Sherwood’s absence is one of the key areas where the Predators feel the loss most.

What was initially viewed as a depth signing has turned into a significant asset for the Canucks. Sherwood’s success is a testament to his relentless work ethic and continued growth as a player. With a cap hit of just $1.5 million, his signing has proven to be an absolute bargain for Vancouver.

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