In hockey, GAA stands for “Goals Against Average.” It is a statistical measure used to determine the average number of goals a goaltender allows per game. A lower GAA indicates a more successful goaltender in terms of preventing goals.
FAQs:
1. How is GAA calculated in hockey?
GAA is calculated by dividing the total number of goals allowed by a goaltender throughout a season by the total number of minutes they played, and then multiplying this number by 60 to get the average goals allowed per 60 minutes.
2. Why is GAA an important stat in hockey?
GAA is an important stat in hockey as it gives an indication of a goaltender’s overall performance. It helps evaluate a goaltender’s ability to prevent goals and is often used to compare goaltenders in terms of their effectiveness.
3. Can GAA be affected by the team’s defense as well?
Yes, GAA can be influenced by the overall performance of a team’s defense. A solid defensive system can help lower a goaltender’s GAA, while a weak defense may result in a higher average.
4. Is GAA the only stat used to evaluate goaltenders’ performances?
No, GAA is just one of the stats used to evaluate goaltenders. Other stats, such as save percentage and wins, are also taken into consideration. GAA provides a general overview of a goaltender’s performance, but it should be analyzed alongside other statistics for a comprehensive evaluation.
5. Is a lower GAA always better?
Yes, generally, a lower GAA is considered better as it indicates a goaltender’s ability to prevent goals effectively. However, it is essential to consider other factors, such as the team’s overall performance and the strength of their opponents, to have a more accurate assessment of a goaltender’s abilities.
6. Who holds the record for the lowest GAA in NHL history?
As of now, Martin Brodeur holds the record for the lowest GAA in NHL history at 1.89. He achieved this during the 1996-1997 NHL season while playing for the New Jersey Devils.
7. Can a higher GAA still mean a successful goaltender?
In some cases, a higher GAA can still indicate a successful goaltender. If a team’s offensive performance is exceptional, a goaltender may allow more goals but still perform well overall. Similarly, if a goaltender faces a high volume of shots or tough opponents, their GAA may be higher, but their performance can still be commendable.
Bottom Line: GAA is a significant statistic in hockey that measures a goaltender’s average number of goals allowed per game. It provides an overview of their effectiveness in preventing goals. However, it is crucial to consider other factors and statistics when evaluating a goaltender’s overall performance.
