Welcome to this edition of the Vancouver Canucks post-game analytics report. This recurring deep dive breaks down the analytics behind each Canucks game as recorded by Natural Stat Trick. In this article, we look back on Vancouver’s most recent 4-3 overtime loss to the Carolina Hurricanes.
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Despite a terrible first period, the Canucks actually outperformed the Hurricanes from an analytics perspective at even-strength. Vancouver won the scoring chances battle 22-20 while finishing with a commanding lead in high-danger scoring chances at 13-6. That being said, they lost the most important battle, losing 4-3, with all seven goals in this game coming at even-strength.
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While Kevin Lankinen was forced to make some tough saves, the Canucks did a decent job at preventing shots from right in front of the crease. Most of Carolina’s chances came from the faceoff dot, while the majority of Vancouver’s were in and around the crease. Ultimately though, the Canucks did not defend the rush very well, as their players were caught up the ice multiple times, leading to a number of odd-man opportunities for the Hurricanes.
Once again, Erik Brännström had a strong night from an analytics perspective. During his 14:06 of even-strength ice time, Vancouver held a 9-3 shots advantage and won the high-danger chances battle 5-0. He was also on the ice for the game-tying goal and has yet to be on the ice for a goal against in five games. With Rick Tocchet looking to shake up the power play, Brännström could be an option based on how strongly he has played at both ends of the ice so far this season.
Lastly, the trio of Jake DeBrusk, J.T. Miller, and Brock Boeser once again drove the team’s play. The trio contributed two goals and held an 8-2 high-danger chances advantage in 12:07 of ice time. It is clear that they have developed some chemistry at even strength and have looked like Vancouver’s best line the last few games.
