The Stats Behind Game #75: Wild 5, Canucks 2
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 5–2 loss to the Minnesota Wild.
Despite the score, Vancouver put up a fair effort tonight, throwing 28 scoring chances-for on Minnesota goaltender Filip Gustavsson. They had a total of 31 shots on goal, 14 of which came during the first period, though the Wild ultimately won out with 32 scoring chances-for and 37 shots on net.
While the Canucks have found some success on the power play as of late, at even-strength, they were unable to put up a fair amount of chances around the net. Contrary to that, Minnesota was able to get up-close around Nikita Tolopilo, indicating that Vancouver was not effectively able to clear the crease to help their goaltender out.
Vancouver Canucks vs. Minnesota Wild, April 2, 2026, Natural Stat Trick. Last night was another solid outing for the line of Max Sasson, Teddy Blueger, and Linus Karlsson, who played the most minutes together (10:51) and put up their team’s highest CF% with 71.43%. Curtis Douglas, Aatu Räty, and Ty Mueller weren’t very far behind with a CF% of 70%, though they played in five less minutes together.
The strong statistical performance for this line translated to their individual play, as Sasson finished the game with the team lead in even-strength CF% (70.83%) and xGF% (70.94%). His linemates weren’t too far behind, with Blueger putting up a 68.97 CF% and 55.65 xGF%, and Linus Karlsson registering a 58.82 CF% and a 42.44 xGF%.
With their road trip now wrapped-up, the Canucks will return to Vancouver for two more games, the first of which will see them face the Utah Mammoth on Saturday afternoon. While the game will be played in Vancouver, puck drop is scheduled for 4:00 pm PT.
Apr 2, 2026; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Vancouver Canucks defensemen Tom Willander (5) beats Minnesota Wild goalie Filip Gustavsson (32) for a goal during the first period at Grand Casino Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nick Wosika-Imagn ImagesMake sure you bookmark THN's Vancouver Canucks site and add us to your favourites on Google News for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more. Also, don't forget to leave a comment at the bottom of the page and engage with other passionate fans through our forum. This article originally appeared on The Hockey News.
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