A look at some of the analytics from the Canucks 4-2, Game 1 win over the Nashville Predators.
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 4-2 Game 1 victory over the Nashville Predators.
Just like the final score, the analytics for this game were very close. At even-strength, Vancouver held a 21-17 scoring chances advantage while also winning the high-danger scoring chances battle 9-7. Overall, it felt like the two teams were more focused at times on physical play than the puck, which was reflected in the overall low analytics total.
As for the heatmap, it shows just how strong the Canucks were in their defensive zone. They kept the Predators away from the middle of the ice all night and forced Nashville to shoot from distance. If they can replicate this type of defensive performance throughout the series, it should frustrate the Predators and potentially open up counter-attack chances as defenders may start to pinch more often.
Heatmap by Natural Stat Trick, VAN vs NSH, April 21, 2024When looking at the forward lines, the trio of Pius Suter, J.T. Miller and Brock Boeser absolutely dominated from an analytics perspective. During their 10:04 of ice time, Vancouver had a 7-2 shots advantage and won the high-danger scoring chances battle 5-0. The trio also all finished with at least a point and had an xGF% of 93.46. Ultimately, they won their matchup almost every time they stepped on the ice and played critical roles in the Canucks Game 1 victory.
Lastly, Dakota Joshua had a night to remember. In his second career playoff game, Joshua had two goals, an assist, six hits and an xGF% of 69.93 at even strength. He also played a significant role in shutting down Nashville's top line, limiting the trio of Filip Forsberg, Ryan O'Reilly and Gustav Nyquist to one high-danger chance in over seven minutes of even-strength play. Whether it was on special teams or at even strength, Joshua was Vancouver's most impactful player on the night and has the potential to be a star for the Canucks during the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
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