A good plus-minus in hockey refers to a positive value achieved by a player that indicates their team’s goal differential when they are on the ice. It is a measure of a player’s defensive abilities and overall impact on the game. A positive plus-minus suggests that a player’s team scores more goals than they allow when that player is participating in the game.
FAQs:
1. How is plus-minus calculated in hockey?
In hockey, plus-minus is calculated by subtracting the number of goals scored against a team when a player is on the ice from the number of goals scored by their team. If the result is positive, it is counted as a plus, and if negative, it is a minus.
2. How can a player have a good plus-minus even if they don’t score many points?
A player can have a good plus-minus without scoring many points if they consistently make smart defensive plays, contribute to their team’s possession and offensive zone time, and effectively contribute to suppressing the opposition’s offense.
3. Is plus-minus an accurate measure of a player’s individual performance?
While plus-minus can provide some insights into a player’s overall impact on the game, it is not a perfect measure of individual performance. It can be influenced by various factors such as the strength of the player’s linemates, the quality of the opposition, and even luck.
4. What are some strategies players use to improve their plus-minus?
To improve their plus-minus, players focus on their defensive positioning, communicate effectively with their teammates, backcheck diligently, and minimize turnovers. A strong understanding of the game’s defensive systems and disciplined play can help players achieve a positive plus-minus.
5. Can plus-minus be misleading in certain situations?
Yes, plus-minus can be misleading in certain situations. For example, players on highly skilled offensive teams may have a higher plus-minus due to the team’s overall scoring prowess, even if their defensive contributions are limited. It is essential to consider other advanced stats and evaluate a player’s overall game before drawing conclusions solely based on plus-minus.
6. Are there any records for the highest plus-minus in a single season?
Yes, some players hold impressive records for the highest plus-minus in a single season. For instance, in the NHL, Bobby Orr holds the record (season 1970-71) with a plus-124, indicating an exceptional year where his team significantly outscored their opponents when he was on the ice.
7. What is a “minus” player in hockey?
A “minus” player in hockey refers to a player who has a negative plus-minus value. It indicates that when they are on the ice, their team allows more goals than they score. However, it’s important to consider the context and other factors mentioned earlier before solely judging a player’s abilities based on their plus-minus.
BOTTOM LINE: A good plus-minus in hockey signifies a player’s positive impact on their team’s goal differential. Although it can give an indication of defensive abilities, it should be considered alongside other stats and factors to evaluate a player’s overall performance and impact on the game.
