A look at some of the analytics from the Canucks 6-3 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 6-3 loss to the L.A. Kings.
From an analytics perspective, Vancouver deserved a better result than a 6-3 loss. The Canucks held a 26-15 even-strength scoring chance advantage while also winning the even-strength high-danger scoring chance battle 12-7 but, once again, couldn't find a way to beat the Kings. Overall, this game was a good reminder of how frustrating L.A. can be and how fast the Kings can convert off a turnover.
Heatmap by Natural Stat Trick, VAN vs LAK, Apr. 6, 2024Adding to the frustration, the heatmap heavily favoured Vancouver, showing that they were able to create in the offensive zone. At the end of the night, Cam Talbot faced 15 high-danger shots at all strength, with the Canucks scoring on three of them. The difference, though, was at the other end, as the Kings were able to get two high-danger shots, three medium-danger shots, and one low-danger shot past Casey DeSmith in what was a tough night for Vancouver's goaltender.
One line that stood out from an analytics perspective was the trio of Dakota Joshua, J.T. Miller, and Conor Garland. During their 8:00 together, the Canucks had a 6-1 scoring chances advantage while the line finished with an xGF% of 84.18. Combining for one of Vancouver's three goals on the night, this trio once again showed that they can lead by example and contribute on a game-to-game basis.
Lastly, Ian Cole had a strong night, according to the analytics. Cole played 15:37 at even strength, with the Canucks holding an 8-1 high-danger chances advantage when he was on the ice. He also played a significant role on the penalty kill as in his almost two minutes of shorthanded time, L.A. was held to two shots. Ultimately, it was another strong night for the 35-year-old as he continues to show why he was a valuable addition this past offseason.
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