Articles / 'Definitely a funny stat': Flames' Weegar on impact of plus-minus ratings

'Definitely a funny stat': Flames' Weegar on impact of plus-minus ratings

S
Sportsnet
Nov 15, 2025 2:44 PM

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Calgary Flames defenseman MacKenzie Weegar recently shared his perspective on the significance of plus-minus ratings in the NHL. Speaking passionately during a segment, Weegar offered a humorous take on how this statistic often serves as an assessment tool for evaluating players' performances. He expressed that players often joke about their plus-minus numbers, recognizing it as a light-hearted metric that can sometimes overshadow more meaningful contributions on the ice.

Weegar pointed out that while fans and analysts may scrutinize plus-minus ratings to judge a player's effectiveness, it is ultimately just one part of a much larger picture. He emphasized that the stat does not account for various factors such as team dynamics, specific matchups, and even sheer luck during games. With a blend of wit and seriousness, Weegar encouraged a broader discussion around player evaluation metrics in hockey.

As the Flames work to find their rhythm this season, Weegar's insights remind fans that numbers can be deceiving. The focus should be on the teamwork and skill exhibited throughout the games, not solely on individual stats. This approach to hockey analysis, as demonstrated by Weegar, fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation for the game that goes beyond traditional metrics.

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