The Stats Behind The Game: Canucks 3, Ducks 1

A look at some of the analytics from the Canucks 3-1 win against the Anaheim Ducks.

Welcome to this edition of "The Stats Behind The Game." This recurring deep dive breaks down the analytics behind each Vancouver Canucks game as recorded by Natural Stat Trick. In this article, we look back on the Canucks most recent 3-1 victory over the Anaheim Ducks.

The analytics show how shot totals can sometimes be deceiving. A perfect example is the even strength analytics from the first period. In 16:00 of even-strength action, the Ducks outshot the Canucks 9-4, yet it was Vancouver that led in scoring chances (7-5), high-danger scoring chances (4-1) and expected goals for (xGF) (.66-.36). What this tells us is that while Anaheim used the strategy of just get anything they could on the net, the Canucks were a little more tactical in their shot selection which is why they had the advantage not just on the scoreboard, but within the analytics after the first. 

While Vancouver did slip in the second and was lucky only to allow one goal against, they once again dominated the third, leading to the victory. Strong third periods with limited shots against has become a trend for the Canucks lately, as this was the fourth straight game they held the opposition to five or fewer even-strength shots in the third period. In this game, they outshot the Ducks 14-3 while also leading them in high-danger chances created 5-3. Overall, the analytics back up the theory that despite being outplayed for portions of the game, the Canucks deserved to beat the Ducks based on the two teams play at even strength. 

As for which Canuck led the way from an analytics perspective, surprisingly, it was Tyler Myers. During his 17:55 of even-strength ice time, Vancouver outscored Anaheim 2-0, had a shots advantage of 14-7 and an xGF of 1.59. He was also on the ice for a team-high 18 scoring chances and eight high-danger chances. Add in the fact that he also recorded the primary assist on the game-winning goal, and you have arguably one of the best even-strength games he has played so far this season. 

Lastly, let's look at Andrei Kuzmenko's numbers in his first game back since being scratched. While Tocchet said he played "Just OK," the analytics tell a different story. During his 11:09 of even strength ice time, the Canucks had a 7-0 advantage in scoring chances as well as a 5-0 advantage in high-danger scoring chances. While he didn't record a shot on net, he still finished with a 0.12 individual expected goals for and even blocked a shot. From the eye test to the analytics, it is clear the Russian winger took the coach's words to heart as he tries to rebuild that trust and show he can be valuable at both ends of the ice. 

Make sure to check back Friday after the game against the Vegas Golden Knights for another edition of "The Stats Behind The Game."