5 Most Underrated & Overrated NHL Stats
T
The Hockey Writers
Summary: This is a summary of an article originally published by The Hockey Writers. Read the full original article here →
In the world of hockey, statistics can be as much a part of the game as the players themselves. Certain stats shine a light on player performance, while others are often overlooked and underappreciated. This article delves into some of the most underrated and overrated statistics in the NHL, emphasizing how they can misrepresent a player's true impact on the ice.
One of the critical underrated stats is Fenwick, which measures shot attempts (excluding blocked shots) while a player is on the ice. This metric provides insights into a player's ability to generate offensive opportunities and control the puck, yet it often gets overshadowed by more mainstream metrics. Players like Ryan O'Reilly and Mark Scheifele exemplify how understanding these deeper stats can reflect their contributions beyond just goals and assists.
Conversely, some statistics are frequently misconstrued, leading to a skewed perception of players. A prime example is plus/minus, which can misrepresent a player's overall effectiveness. A player may have a low plus/minus due to factors beyond their control, such as their team’s defensive performance. By focusing only on this stat, fans might overlook the true skill sets of players like Jonathan Toews, who consistently demonstrates leadership and versatility on the ice.
This exploration emphasizes the necessity for fans and analysts alike to look beyond traditional metrics to understand players’ contributions fully. By embracing comprehensive statistics, we can celebrate players for their true impact in a game that’s as much about strategy and skill as it is about numbers.
One of the critical underrated stats is Fenwick, which measures shot attempts (excluding blocked shots) while a player is on the ice. This metric provides insights into a player's ability to generate offensive opportunities and control the puck, yet it often gets overshadowed by more mainstream metrics. Players like Ryan O'Reilly and Mark Scheifele exemplify how understanding these deeper stats can reflect their contributions beyond just goals and assists.
Conversely, some statistics are frequently misconstrued, leading to a skewed perception of players. A prime example is plus/minus, which can misrepresent a player's overall effectiveness. A player may have a low plus/minus due to factors beyond their control, such as their team’s defensive performance. By focusing only on this stat, fans might overlook the true skill sets of players like Jonathan Toews, who consistently demonstrates leadership and versatility on the ice.
This exploration emphasizes the necessity for fans and analysts alike to look beyond traditional metrics to understand players’ contributions fully. By embracing comprehensive statistics, we can celebrate players for their true impact in a game that’s as much about strategy and skill as it is about numbers.