The Low-Shooting 2024-25 Canucks
The Vancouver Canucks had a challenging season in 2024-25, and one of the key issues that stood out was their low shot count. They finished with the second-lowest number of shots per game in the league, averaging just 25.5 shots per game. This placed them behind only the Chicago Blackhawks, who averaged 24.5 shots per game. However, there is an important distinction to make here. While the Blackhawks allowed the most shots against per game, the Canucks were actually among the top teams in terms of defensive efficiency, allowing only 26.8 shots against per game.
This suggests that the Canucks’ low shot count wasn’t necessarily due to a lack of opportunities but rather a strategic choice to focus more on defense. The team’s decision to play a more conservative style may have been influenced by several factors, including coaching decisions, defensive confidence, and player performance.
A Matter of Coaching?
Some fans and analysts believed that head coach Rick Tocchet encouraged his players to be overly selective with their shots during the 2024-25 season. However, this isn’t entirely accurate when looking at previous seasons under Tocchet. In the 2023-24 season, the Canucks shot at a higher rate of 28.4 shots per game, which was nearly three percentage points higher than in 2024-25. Despite this, the team still ranked 26th in the league in shooting percentage.
Comparing this to the 2022-23 season, when the Canucks were coached by Bruce Boudreau, the team shot at a much higher rate of 32.0 shots per game. This significant difference suggests that coaching style could have played a role in the team’s approach to shooting.
An Unreliable Back-End?
Another factor contributing to the Canucks’ low shot count was the performance of their defense. The team finished with a team save percentage of 90.44%, which was just barely above the bottom 10 in the league. Much of the early season was plagued by poor goaltending, which likely led to a more cautious approach from the defense.
The loss of key defenders like Quinn Hughes and Filip Hronek for parts of the season also affected the team’s ability to take risks. A weaker blueline can lead to a more defensive mindset, which in turn reduces offensive opportunities.
Elias Pettersson: A Key Factor
Elias Pettersson’s decline as a shooter has also played a major role in the team’s low shot count. Over the past few seasons, Pettersson has seen a noticeable drop in his per-game shot and goal numbers. His shot total dropped from 3.21 in the 2022-23 season to just 1.70 in 2024-25. This decline in confidence has not only affected his own production but also impacted his teammates.
When Pettersson doesn’t shoot, it makes it easier for opponents to shut down other players like Brock Boeser and Jake DeBrusk. This creates a cycle where lower confidence leads to fewer shots, which in turn leads to even less confidence.
The Fixes
With the 2025-26 season on the horizon, there are several potential solutions to address the Canucks’ low shot count.
Coaching Change
The departure of Rick Tocchet and the arrival of Adam Foote brings some uncertainty. While Foote is known for his defensive style, he may bring changes to the team’s approach. His assistant, Kevin Dean, comes from the Chicago Blackhawks, who had one of the lowest shot totals in the league. However, Foote is likely to make adjustments to the system, potentially encouraging more offensive play.
Elias Pettersson
Pettersson’s return to health and form is a crucial factor. If he can regain his confidence and shooting touch, it will have a ripple effect on the entire team. His increased shot volume could open up space for other players and lead to more scoring chances.
Better Defence
The Canucks have made improvements to their blueline, with players like Quinn Hughes and Filip Hronek returning to full health. Marcus Pettersson is expected to provide strong two-way play, and younger players like Victor Mancini and Tom Willander could add depth. A more mobile and confident defense should allow for more offensive opportunities.
Better Goaltending
If Thatcher Demko returns to his pre-injury form, it could significantly impact the team’s approach. A reliable goalie allows for more aggressive play, leading to more shots on goal. Additionally, the potential addition of Kevin Lankinen as a backup could provide stability and rest for Demko.
In conclusion, the Canucks have several avenues to improve their shot count and overall performance in the 2025-26 season. With changes in coaching, player development, and defensive structure, there is hope for a more balanced and effective team moving forward.