In today’s hockey, analytics have challenged the eye test as the best way to analyze players and teams. However, some of the old guard recognize that what’s seen in front of them is just as important as looking at the numbers.

When speaking to the media on Monday, Vancouver Canucks head coach Adam Foote addressed some of the criticism of his team’s play in its own zone, after being asked whether the Canucks are “tough enough” in and around their own net.

Foote mentioned that he’s not going to call out a player based on their poor analytics.

“I’m not going to blow up a kid or something being overanalyzed by, no disrespect, people that really don’t know,” Foote said.

Foote also poked fun at those potentially tracking players, further professing confidence in Vancouver’s hockey operations staff to properly work with the talent on its roster.

“They’re just looking at numbers from people that could be in Russia in a basement, having cigarettes and cashews, telling them their scoring chances. So we’re going to depend on our guys, and really recognize what we believe has to be fixed and what doesn’t.”

With the numerous injuries the Canucks have suffered this season, some young players have been forced into roles and positions they otherwise may not be playing in. As a result, the Canucks have given up 86 goals, which is the most in the NHL.

Yet, regardless of the numbers, Foote believes he and his staff are going to work and help the blue line improve as the season rolls along.

“There’s a ton of things I’m real happy about,” Foote said. “We’ve got to get on guys faster, sooner, and closer. So, you know, we’ve got to keep teaching.”

The Canucks (9-12-2) are scheduled to visit the Anaheim Ducks on Wednesday night.