A look at some of the analytics from the Vancouver Canucks 2-1 overtime victory over the San Jose Sharks.

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 2-1 overtime victory over the San Jose Sharks. 

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The Canucks lost the analytics battle in this game because they decided to defend for the majority of the third period. They lost the even-strength scoring chances battle 23-18 while finishing the night having given up 15 high-danger even-strength scoring chances compared to just eight created. As mentioned, the third period was a tough one for Vancouver as San Jose had five even-strength high-danger chances compared to zero for the Canucks. 

The heatmap is a good reflection of the analytics as it shows Vancouver's problematic defending in their defensive zone. The Sharks were able to create a decent amount of chances in front of the net, including the game-tying goal from Tyler Toffoli. Ultimately, it should have been a better performance, especially as the Canucks were playing the 32nd-ranked team on Thursday night. 

As for Vancouver's best forward line, that would be the trio of Nils Höglander, Teddy Blueger and Nils Åman. During their 8:48 of ice time, the Canucks fourth line held a 5-1 scoring chances advantage while finishing the night with an xGF% of 58.48. While they didn't end up on the board, the trio performed well and, most importantly, were able to control play during their shifts together. 

To wrap things up, Thatcher Demko once again looked like his old self. Demko stopped 33 of the 34 shots he faced, including 12 of 13 high-danger shots. With an expected goals against of 3.62, it is safe to say that Demko stole this game for Vancouver. 

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