A look at some of the analytics from the Canucks 3-2 loss to the L.A. Kings.
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 3-2 loss to the L.A. Kings.
The analytics for this game heavily favoured Vancouver. This mostly had to do with the Kings' style of play, as they were more than happy to sit back and wait until the Canucks made a mistake to capitalize. At even strength, Vancouver had a 25-11 scoring chances advantage while they also won the high-danger scoring chances battle 12-5. Unfortunately, though, the Canucks were unable to break through against L.A., leading to just their eighth regulation loss at home this season.
As for the heatmap, it shows that the Canucks were strong in their own zone while also being able to get bodies in front of Cam Talbot. The main difference, however, was the Kings capitalizing on missed assignments and flukey goals. From a process standpoint, it was another strong defensive effort but one that required more chances and shots in the offensive zone.
Heatmap by Natural Stat Trick, VAN vs LAK, Mar. 25, 2024One defensive pair that stood out for Canucks was Tyler Myers and Quinn Hughes. The newly formed duo played 13:51 at even strength and posted an xGF% of 92.7. Vancouver also had an 8-0 scoring chances advantage and won the high-danger scoring chances battle 3-0 high-danger when Myers and Hughes were on the ice. Overall, this is a positive as it shows these two can be played together and have a strong performance against a possible playoff opponent.
Lastly, the Canucks third line of Teddy Blueger, Sam Lafferty and Ilya Mikheyev were arguably Vancouver's best trio of the game. In 8:31 together, they posted an xGF% of 85.72 and had a 6-2 high-danger chances advantage. Moving forward, it is clear this is another trio Rick Tocchet can feel comfortable as the Canucks coach continues to mix up his lines ahead of the postseason.
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