Hockey pools, also known as fantasy hockey, are a popular way for fans to engage with the sport and add a competitive element to their viewing experience. Here are five key facts about how hockey pools work:
1. Drafting Players: In a hockey pool, participants typically start by drafting a team of real NHL players. Each participant takes turns selecting players from the league, usually in a serpentine or “snake” draft style, until all roster spots are filled.
2. Scoring System: Points are awarded to players based on their performances in real NHL games. Common scoring categories include goals, assists, plus/minus, power-play points, shots on goal, penalty minutes, and sometimes goalie stats like wins, save percentage, and shutouts.
3. Setting Lineups: Throughout the season, participants can make changes to their roster by adding or dropping players, and selecting which players to start in their lineup for each scoring period. Usually, there will be a maximum number of players allowed per position.
4. Competition Format: Hockey pools can vary in terms of format, with some being head-to-head matchups where participants face off against one another each week, while others operate as total points leagues where the goal is to accumulate the most points over the course of the season.
5. Trading and Negotiating: Many hockey pools allow participants to engage in trades with other teams in the league. This adds an extra layer of strategy and interaction, as participants can negotiate and make deals to improve their teams.
Now, let’s dive into some frequently asked questions about hockey pools:
1. How do I join a hockey pool?
– Typically, you can join a hockey pool by either creating your own league with friends or colleagues, or by joining an existing league online through various fantasy sports platforms.
2. How many players do I need to draft for my hockey pool team?
– The number of players you need to draft may vary depending on the league, but a common roster size is around 20 players, including both skaters and goalies.
3. Do I need to be knowledgeable about all NHL teams and players to succeed in a hockey pool?
– While having broader knowledge of the NHL can be helpful, successful hockey pool strategies often involve focusing on individual player performances rather than team success. So, it is possible to excel in a hockey pool by familiarizing yourself with players from different teams.
4. Can I make changes to my roster during the season?
– Yes, most hockey pools allow participants to make changes to their roster during the season. You can add or drop players as well as swap players in and out of your starting lineup based on matchups or injuries.
5. Is there a cost to participate in a hockey pool?
– It depends on the league. Some hockey pools are free to join, especially if you create your own league with friends. However, there are also paid leagues with entry fees, and the prize pool is usually distributed among the top-performing participants.
6. Can I choose any NHL player for my hockey pool team?
– As long as the player is eligible and available in the pool’s player pool, you can select any NHL player for your team. However, keep in mind that you’ll be competing against other participants for popular and high-performing players.
7. How do I earn points for my players in a hockey pool?
– Points are earned based on specific statistical categories assigned to players. Each league may have its own scoring system, but common categories include goals, assists, power-play points, and shots on goal. Points are typically tallied up after each scoring period or at the end of the season.
BOTTOM LINE: Hockey pools provide an exciting way for fans to engage with NHL games and form their own virtual teams. By drafting players, setting lineups, and earning points based on player performance, participants can test their skills and knowledge while competing against friends or colleagues in a fantasy hockey league.
