A look at some of the analytics from the Canucks 7-4 victory over the Sharks.
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 7-4 victory over the San Jose Sharks.
Despite both teams combining for 11 goals, this was a low-event game where both teams capitalized on their chances. Neither team hit 20 shots on goal at even strength, and the high-danger scoring chances were tied at eight. The only major difference was Vancouver led in scoring chances 21-14, which, in the end, was one of the reasons why they walked away with the victory.
The other reason the Canucks were victorious was their willingness to create havoc in front of the net. Three of their goals were classified as tip-ins, while they had an average goal distance at even strength of 21.80 feet. Getting bodies to the front of the net has proven effective all season and was a major factor once again versus the Sharks.
As for a defence pairing that really stepped up, that would be Noah Juulsen and Ian Cole. The duo played 10:34 of ice time together at even strength and did not allow a scoring chance or high-danger scoring chance while on the ice simultaneously. This pairing has been consistent over the last couple of weeks and continues to provide value to Vancouver's lineup.
While this was not a perfect game for the Canucks, their offence stepped up and carried them to a win. Ideally, the team would want more than three high-danger shots on net at even strength, but they were able to make the most of their opportunities and make life difficult for Mackenzie Blackwood. Overall, Vancouver earned this victory and now gets a few days off to recharge before the push for the playoffs starts.
Make sure to check back after the game against the Philadelphia Flyers for another edition of "The Stats Behind The Game."
