Despite having a somewhat modest 10 goals in 53 games this season, Podkolzin has contributed three game winners. That puts him in a three-way tie for fourth place among rookies in game-winning goals this season.

Podkolzin got the Canucks on the board early in the second period when he scored off a double deflection (that goal made it 3-1 for New Jersey at the time). The 20-year-old has scored twice in his last four games. He's now up to nine goals and five assists in 52 games this season. Tanner Pearson also found the back of the net for the Canucks on Monday night. 

Podkolzin was scratched for Monday's match against Chicago. He has seven goals, 10 points, 55 shots and 44 hits in 42 games during his rookie season. 

All that was said was that Podkolzin's absence is not protocol related. The 20-year-old forward has seven goals and 10 points in 42 games so far this season.