The Stats Behind The Game: Canucks 3, Oilers 1
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 3-1 win over the Edmonton Oilers.
Despite losing the analytics battle, Vancouver walked away from Rogers Place with a victory and the season series sweep of the Oilers. At even strength, Edmonton held a 27-21 scoring chances advantage while also winning the high-danger scoring chances battle 17-8, but couldn't beat Casey DeSmith, who was a brick wall all night. Overall, it was a good road victory that showed the Canucks can win even if their stars do not end up on the scoresheet.
As for the heatmap, Vancouver did a decent job of forcing the Oilers into low-danger shots. While there were chances right in front of DeSmith, he was able to shut the door, stopping eight of the nine high-danger shots he faced. In the end, it was a good effort in the defensive zone and was another example of just how strong the Canucks have been this year at closing out games.
Looking at the defensive pairings, Nikita Zadorov and Ian Cole once again had a strong night together. During their 14:25 of ice time, Vancouver had a 5-0 high-danger scoring chances advantage while the duo posted an xGF% of 84.85. Going up mostly against Edmonton's top six, Zadorov and Cole provided steady minutes, limiting the Oilers to four even-strength shots when they were on the ice together.
Lastly, Vasily Podkolzin had another strong game for the Canucks. He led the team in hits with seven, while Vancouver had an 8-3 scoring chances advantage during his 10:22 of even-strength ice time. Despite playing limited minutes, Podkolzin continues to have an impact and is showing how effective he should be come playoff time.
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