Could the Canucks Win the Pacific Division Again? An Expert Thinks So
JFresh, a well-regarded hockey statistician, believes that the Vancouver Canucks and the Edmonton Oilers could finish the 2024-25 season tied in points.
The 2023-24 season was a thrilling experience for Canucks fans, who had been waiting for a successful run for over a decade. Their team, after years of struggles and lackluster performances, started the season strong and had the best record in the league by the All-Star break. This resurgence brought a wave of excitement to the fan base.
The Canucks were scoring freely, playing solid defense, and benefiting from stellar goaltending. Although they experienced a drop in their unprecedented shooting percentage in the second half of the season, they managed to maintain their winning form and secured the Pacific Division title, narrowly holding off a strong finish by the Oilers.
The question now is whether the Canucks can replicate their success. According to JFresh’s recent projection, the answer is yes. He predicts that the Canucks will finish the 2024-25 season with 111 points, matching the Oilers.
This projection might surprise those who doubt the Canucks’ defensive upgrades or question the contributions of players like Tyler Myers, Vincent Desharnais, Jake DeBrusk, and Danton Heinen. Critics argued that the Canucks’ shooting success was unsustainable, and while their shooting percentage did decline, their defensive improvements compensated for it.
Okay let's just rip the bandaid off. First standings projection post-free agency. pic.twitter.com/IKnP2auK2u
— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) July 5, 2024
At the end of the season, the Canucks’ performance was strong in various aspects. Their defensive solidity was genuine, and their offensive lineup, led by Quinn Hughes, J.T. Miller, and Elias Pettersson, remains formidable. They may not be the top team in the league, but they are close.
Scoring and preventing goals are crucial in hockey, and JFresh’s projection suggests the Canucks will excel in both areas. Canucks fans should get ready for another exciting season.
