The Stats Behind Game #25: Canucks 5, Blue Jackets 2

Welcome to this edition of the Vancouver Canucks post-game analytics report. This recurring deep dive breaks down the analytics behind each Canucks game as recorded by Natural Stat Trick. In this article, we look back on Vancouver’s most recent 5-2 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets. 

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While the Canucks did take home a win, Columbus was the clear winner from an analytics perspective. At even strength, Vancouver lost the scoring chances battle 28-14 while also falling in the high-danger scoring chances category 9-8. Despite the discrepancy in scoring chances, the Canucks did finish with a higher xGF%, posting a 50.9% advantage during the 51:29 of even-strength time.

The heatmap from this game is not unexpected, as the Blue Jackets did outshoot Vancouver 31-17 on the night. While Kevin Lankinen did have to make 30 saves, the Canucks did a good job ensuring that most of the shots taken were from distance. Yes, there were quite a few rebounds, but Vancouver also demonstrated an ability to clear pucks away from the crease when rebounds occurred in front of their net.

The only line on the analytics side that didn’t get caved in was the trio of Brock Boeser, Elias Pettersson, and Jake DeBursk. During their 11:01 of ice time, the Canucks held a 6-4 shots advantage and won the high-danger scoring chances battle 3-2. They were also the only forward line that recorded an xGF% over 46%, finishing the night at 53.06%.

Lastly, it was a strong night for Carson Soucy, who played over 22 minutes in all situations. He blocked four shots and finished the game with an even-strength xGF% of 62.99%. After a slow start, Soucy has found his game and played a crucial role in Vancouver’s victory on Friday night.