Plus minus is a statistical category in hockey that measures a player’s impact on the game based on the number of goals scored for and against their team while they are on the ice. Here are 5 supporting facts explaining how plus minus is calculated in hockey:
1. Plus minus is calculated by subtracting the number of goals scored against the player’s team while they are on the ice from the number of goals their team scores while they are on the ice.
2. If a player is on the ice when their team scores a goal, their plus minus increases by one.
3. On the other hand, if a player is on the ice when the opposing team scores a goal, their plus minus decreases by one.
4. The plus minus statistic only takes into account even strength goals, meaning goals scored when both teams have an equal number of players on the ice.
5. Plus minus does not take into account power play or shorthanded goals.
Now let’s delve into some frequently asked questions about plus minus in hockey:
1. Is plus minus an accurate measure of a player’s defensive skills?
– Plus minus can provide insight into a player’s defensive abilities, but it is not the sole determining factor. Other defensive statistics, such as blocked shots, takeaways, and time on ice, should also be considered.
2. Can a player have a negative plus minus?
– Yes, a player can have a negative plus minus if their team allows more goals than they score while that player is on the ice.
3. Does the plus minus statistic account for goals scored during shootouts?
– No, shootouts are not factored into the plus minus statistic. It only considers goals scored during regulation and overtime.
4. Can a player’s plus minus be affected by the performance of their teammates?
– Yes, a player’s plus minus can be influenced by their linemates and the overall performance of their team. It is important to analyze plus minus in context and consider other factors.
5. Is plus minus used as a determining factor for awards?
– While plus minus is not the primary factor for most awards, it can be taken into consideration. The Frank J. Selke Trophy, for example, which is awarded to the best defensive forward, considers plus minus along with other defensive metrics.
6. Is plus minus an effective measure of a player’s overall contribution to the game?
– Plus minus is just one of many statistics used to gauge a player’s impact. It does not account for individual offensive contributions, penalties drawn, or other intangibles that contribute to a player’s overall performance.
7. Can a player’s plus minus be skewed due to playing on a strong or weak team?
– Yes, a player’s plus minus can be influenced by the performance of the team they play for. Players on stronger teams often have higher plus minus ratings, whereas players on weaker teams might have lower ratings. It is important to consider the team context when evaluating plus minus.
BOTTOM LINE:
Plus minus in hockey is calculated by subtracting the number of goals scored against a player’s team from the number of goals their team scores while they are on the ice. While it can provide insight into a player’s defensive abilities, it should be considered alongside other defensive statistics and analyzed in context. Plus minus does not account for power play or shorthanded goals and is just one piece of the puzzle when evaluating a player’s performance.
