The Stats Behind Game #27: Blues 4, Canucks 3 (OT)

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 4-3 overtime loss to the St. Louis Blues.

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This was not a good game for the Canucks from an analytics perspective. Vancouver lost the even-strength scoring chances battle 25-15 and fell 9-5 on the high-danger scoring chances scoreboard. The Canucks also finished with an even-strength xGF% of 41.63%, which was the lowest on the current homestand.

As for the heatmap, it shows the problems Vancouver had in front of their own net. The Canucks weren't able to box out and gave up multiple breakaways throughout the game. Overall, it was not an easy first game back for Thatcher Demko, who faced six high-danger shots in his

Vancouver's top line of Jake DeBrusk, Elias Pettersson and Brock Boeser were once again their best. During their 12:48 of ice time, the Canucks held a 6-4 shots advantage and teamed up for the game-tying goal. This is yet another in a long-growing list of strong performances from this trio as they once again lead the charge for Vancouver.

As for the star of the game, that was Quinn Hughes. During his 24:30 of even-strength ice time, the Canucks held a 13-11 shots advantage while generating nine scoring chances. While he didn't register a point, Hughes was a difference-maker and showed why he should be considered for both the Norris and Hart Trophies.