In the first period of a hockey game in Vancouver, Columbus Blue Jackets' goaltender Elvis Merzlikins made crucial saves, including one from a shot by fellow Latvian Teddy Blueger, to keep the score tied at 0-0 against the Vancouver Canucks. With 5:13 left in the first period, the Canucks dominated with a 12-4 edge in shots on goal and 26-11 in shot attempts, but Merzlikins' performance kept them at bay. The Canucks, tied for the league lead in points, showed their strength and pace, with the JT Miller line dominating with a 9-0 shot count when on the ice. The Blue Jackets' line of 42-7-17 also started strong.
shots were 9-0 with JT Miller line on the ice in that period
No score after the 1st period of play. The Canucks lead shots, 11-4. #CBJ
0-0 game through 20 minutes in Vancouver. The Canucks were flying early but #CBJ found some footing as the period went on. Shots on goal are 12-4 Canucks; shot attempts are 26-11.
End of one here in VAN and it remains 0-0 mostly thanks to Elvis Merzlikins. This game could easily be 3-0 or even 4-0 #Canucks were in not from some crazy good work by the #CBJ goalie. Vancouver outshooting Columbus 12-4 after 20 mins. #CBJAfterDark
#CBJ needed Elvis Merzlikins to be their best player in that first period, and he delivered. #Canucks with a 12-4 edge in shots, but score is 0-0.
dominant period for #Canucks but nothing to show for it. Spent almost entire period in CBJ zone Shots 12-4 Shot attempts 26-11
There's 5:13 left in this 1st period and it's been the Elvis Merzlikins show for the #CBJ ... score remains 0-0 despite the #Canucks holding a 9-2 shot advantage. #CBJAfterDark
Still 0-0 11 minutes in, but you can see why the Canucks entered today tied for the league lead in points. Their pace is excellent. They appear to be on their game tonight. #CBJ haven't been bad but Vancouver's had some good looks. 42-7-17 has been good to start.
Right off the hop, #CBJ G Elvis Merzlikins is forced to make a tough stop to keep it 0-0. Shot was from fellow Latvian Teddy Blueger from the low slot. They know each other well, both from Riga.