Plus/minus is a statistic used in hockey to measure a player’s impact on the game, specifically their team’s goal differential when they are on the ice. It is calculated by subtracting the number of goals scored against their team while they are on the ice from the number of goals scored by their team.
FAQs:
1. How is the plus/minus stat recorded?
The plus/minus stat is recorded during each game by tracking the goals scored for and against a team while a specific player is on the ice.
2. What does a positive plus/minus mean?
A positive plus/minus indicates that a player’s team has scored more goals than their opponents while the player is on the ice. It signifies that the player contributes positively to the team’s goal differential.
3. What does a negative plus/minus mean?
A negative plus/minus means that a player’s team has allowed more goals than they have scored while the player is on the ice. It suggests that the player’s presence on the ice may not be beneficial for their team’s goal differential.
4. Can plus/minus be affected by special teams?
Yes, plus/minus can be affected by special teams such as power plays and penalty kills. If a goal is scored against a player’s team while they are on a power play, their plus/minus will be negatively impacted.
5. Does plus/minus account for individual performance?
Plus/minus is not solely based on individual performance and can be influenced by factors beyond a player’s control, such as the performance of their teammates or opponent’s skill. It is not an accurate measure of an individual player’s skill or talent.
6. Is plus/minus used to compare players?
While plus/minus can be used to compare players to some extent, it is not the most effective measure. It does not consider various factors that contribute to goal differential, such as ice time, linemates, or game situations. Advanced statistics like Corsi or expected goals are usually preferred for player comparison.
7. Are there any limitations to using plus/minus?
Yes, plus/minus has limitations. It does not account for individual contributions beyond goals scored or allowed, such as assists or defensive play. It also does not consider the quality of competition faced by the player or account for situations where they may be playing against weaker or stronger opponents.
BOTTOM LINE:
Plus/minus is a simple statistic used in hockey to measure a player’s impact on their team’s goal differential. However, it has limitations in evaluating individual performance and should be used in conjunction with other advanced statistics for a more comprehensive analysis of a player’s abilities.
