Hockey’s plus-minus statistic is one of the most fundamental measures of player performance in the NHL. Whether you are a casual fan or a seasoned veteran, understanding this statistic is essential to appreciate the nuances of the game.
Simply put, the plus-minus statistic measures a player’s effectiveness in producing goals for their team while also preventing goals against. A positive plus-minus rating indicates that the player has contributed more to the team’s success than to its failures, while a negative plus-minus rating suggests the opposite.
In this ultimate guide, we will break down the plus-minus statistic and explain how it’s calculated, why it’s significant, and how you can use it to evaluate a player’s performance. We’ll also look at some of the most impressive plus-minus seasons in NHL history and share tips on how to improve your rating.
So, whether you’re a fantasy hockey enthusiast or just looking to deepen your knowledge of the game, join us as we explore the ins and outs of the plus-minus statistic and unlock the secrets to success on the ice.
Table of Contents
How the plus-minus statistic is calculated
The plus-minus statistic is used in ice hockey to measure a player’s overall performance on the ice. It’s a simple concept – every time a player is on the ice when his team scores a goal, he receives a +1, and every time he is on the ice when his team allows a goal, he receives a -At the end of the game, the plus-minus numbers are totaled up to give each player a final score.
However, the calculation of the plus-minus statistic can be a bit more complicated than that. For example, players who are on the ice during a power play have an increased chance of scoring, so they may have more +1’s than a player who is not on the power play. Similarly, players who are on the ice during a penalty kill have an increased chance of giving up a goal, so they may have more -1’s than a player who is not on the penalty kill.
Factors that affect plus-minus
Several factors can affect a player’s plus-minus statistic, including:
- Team strength: Players on stronger teams tend to have higher plus-minus scores because they are more likely to be on the ice when their team scores and less likely to be on the ice when their team allows a goal.
- Position: Defensemen tend to have higher plus-minus scores than forwards because they are more involved in preventing goals.
- Ice time: Players who receive more ice time have more opportunities to earn plus-minus points.
Criticism of the plus-minus statistic
Despite its widespread use, the plus-minus statistic has faced criticism from some hockey analysts who argue that it does not accurately reflect a player’s performance. For example, a player may have a high plus-minus score simply because he plays on a strong team, rather than because he is a particularly effective player.
Another criticism is that the plus-minus statistic does not take into account the quality of competition that a player faces. For example, a player who consistently plays against top-line opponents may have a lower plus-minus score than a player who consistently plays against weaker opponents, even if the first player is a more effective player overall.
The significance of a positive plus-minus rating
A positive plus-minus rating in hockey is indicative of a player who is able to contribute to the team’s success, not just in terms of scoring goals, but also in preventing them. A player who has a high plus-minus rating is someone who is reliable and consistent, and who makes smart plays on both sides of the ice. This type of player is often referred to as a “two-way player.”
There are several reasons why a positive plus-minus rating is significant. For one, it is a measure of a player’s overall impact on the game. It takes into account both offensive and defensive contributions, giving a more complete picture of a player’s value to the team. Additionally, a positive plus-minus rating can be an indication of a player’s ability to make good decisions on the ice, such as choosing when to take risks and when to play it safe.
Improved team success
A player with a high plus-minus rating can contribute significantly to the success of their team. When a player is able to both score goals and prevent them, the team is more likely to win games. This is because they are able to both generate offense and limit the opponent’s scoring chances. This can be especially important in close games where every goal counts, as a player with a positive plus-minus rating can make the difference between a win and a loss.
Indication of defensive ability
One of the key factors in achieving a positive plus-minus rating is strong defensive play. This means that a player must be able to effectively defend their own zone, block shots, and disrupt the opposing team’s offensive plays. A high plus-minus rating can therefore be an indication of a player’s defensive abilities, and can be particularly valuable for defensemen, who are often tasked with shutting down the opposing team’s top players.
Valuable for player evaluation
A player’s plus-minus rating can be a useful tool for evaluating their performance over the course of a season. Coaches and scouts often use this statistic to gauge a player’s overall impact on the game, and to identify areas where they may need to improve. It can also be a helpful tool for comparing players across different teams and leagues, as it provides a standardized measure of a player’s overall effectiveness on the ice.
Understanding the significance of a positive plus-minus rating is important for anyone looking to gain a deeper appreciation for the game of hockey. It is a statistic that can provide valuable insights into a player’s abilities, and can be used as a tool for evaluating their performance over time. Whether you’re a fan, coach, or player, understanding the plus-minus statistic is a key part of being a savvy hockey observer.
Why a negative plus-minus rating isn’t always a bad thing
While a positive plus-minus rating is often viewed as a sign of a player’s effectiveness, a negative plus-minus rating doesn’t necessarily mean a player is playing poorly. There are several factors that can contribute to a negative plus-minus rating that are beyond a player’s control.
One such factor is the quality of their teammates. If a player is playing alongside weaker players or those who are having an off night, their plus-minus rating may suffer even if they are performing well. In addition, if a player is on the ice for a lot of goals against but is also generating a lot of scoring chances, their negative plus-minus rating may not be an accurate reflection of their overall performance.
Factors that can lead to a negative plus-minus rating:
- Teammate quality: weaker players or those having an off night can negatively impact a player’s plus-minus rating.
- Role on the team: players who are frequently put on the ice in defensive situations are more likely to have a negative plus-minus rating.
- Luck: there are certain bounces of the puck or referee decisions that can contribute to a negative plus-minus rating.
When a negative plus-minus rating may be misleading:
It’s important to look beyond a player’s plus-minus rating and take into account other factors such as their overall performance, role on the team, and the context of the game. A player who consistently generates scoring chances, plays a key defensive role, or contributes in other ways may still be valuable to their team even with a negative plus-minus rating. As with many statistics, a player’s plus-minus rating should be considered in conjunction with other metrics to get a more complete picture of their performance.
Other statistics to consider:
- Corsi and Fenwick: advanced stats that measure shot attempts and scoring chances generated by a player and their team.
- Expected Goals: a stat that estimates the number of goals a player or team is expected to score based on the quality and quantity of scoring chances they generate.
- Zone Starts: a stat that measures the percentage of a player’s shifts that begin in the offensive or defensive zone, which can impact their plus-minus rating.
The impact of playing on a good or bad team
Playing on a good team can have a significant impact on a player’s performance and plus-minus rating. When a player is surrounded by skilled teammates who are committed to teamwork, their performance is likely to improve. The quality of their teammates can result in an increased number of scoring opportunities, a stronger defense, and more favorable puck possession.
On the other hand, playing on a bad team can negatively affect a player’s performance and plus-minus rating. When a player is surrounded by less talented teammates who lack commitment to teamwork, their performance is likely to suffer. A weak team can result in fewer scoring opportunities, weaker defense, and less puck possession, leading to a decrease in the player’s performance.
The benefits of playing on a good team
- Increased scoring opportunities
- Stronger defense
- Favorable puck possession
- Better support from teammates
- Improved confidence and motivation
The challenges of playing on a bad team
- Fewer scoring opportunities
- Weaker defense
- Limited puck possession
- Less support from teammates
- Decreased confidence and motivation
The role of individual performance
While playing on a good or bad team can impact a player’s plus-minus rating, individual performance also plays a significant role. A skilled player can still perform well on a bad team, while a less talented player may struggle on a good team. It is important for players to continue to focus on their individual skills and performance regardless of the team’s overall performance.
How to improve your plus-minus rating
If you want to improve your plus-minus rating, there are several things you can do. First, work on improving your individual skills. This means practicing shooting, passing, and skating to improve your overall game.
Secondly, pay attention to the strengths and weaknesses of your teammates. If you can identify areas where your team is struggling, you can work to fill those gaps and improve the team’s overall performance.
Focus on Defense
If you want to improve your plus-minus rating, focus on your defensive game. Strong defensive play leads to fewer goals against, which can improve your plus-minus rating. Stay alert and try to anticipate the opponent’s next move. Good positioning and stick work can also help you prevent goals.
Work on Your Special Teams Play
Special teams play, including power plays and penalty kills, can have a big impact on your plus-minus rating. If you can be a key player on your team’s power play, you’ll have more opportunities to score, which can help improve your plus-minus rating. Similarly, if you’re a strong penalty killer, you can prevent goals against and improve your rating.
Be a Team Player
Finally, be a team player. If you’re willing to sacrifice your own scoring opportunities to make a good pass or set up a teammate for a goal, your team will be more successful overall. This can lead to more wins and fewer goals against, which will help improve your plus-minus rating.
The most impressive plus-minus seasons in NHL history
Plus-minus rating is a hockey statistic that measures the difference between the number of goals a player’s team scores while they are on the ice at even strength versus the number of goals their opponents score. A high plus-minus rating is a good indicator of a player’s defensive abilities and their overall contribution to their team’s success.
In NHL history, there have been some truly impressive plus-minus seasons that demonstrate the impact a player can have on their team’s success. Here are three of the most notable:
Larry Robinson, 1976-77 Montreal Canadiens
- Larry Robinson had a plus-minus rating of +120 during the 1976-77 season, which is the highest single-season plus-minus rating in NHL history.
- Robinson was a key part of the Montreal Canadiens’ powerhouse team that won their second of four consecutive Stanley Cup championships that year.
- Robinson’s stellar defensive play and offensive contributions (19 goals and 69 assists) earned him the Norris Trophy as the league’s top defenseman that season.
Bobby Orr, 1970-71 Boston Bruins
- Bobby Orr had a plus-minus rating of +124 during the 1970-71 season, which is the second-highest single-season plus-minus rating in NHL history.
- Orr was already regarded as one of the best players in the league, but his dominant performance that season solidified his status as one of the all-time greats.
- Orr won the Hart Trophy as the league’s most valuable player that season and led the Boston Bruins to their second Stanley Cup championship in three years.
Wayne Gretzky, 1984-85 Edmonton Oilers
- Wayne Gretzky had a plus-minus rating of +98 during the 1984-85 season, which is the highest plus-minus rating for a forward in NHL history.
- Gretzky’s incredible offensive abilities are well-known, but his defensive contributions were also crucial to the success of the Edmonton Oilers dynasty in the 1980s.
- Gretzky won his seventh consecutive Hart Trophy as the league’s most valuable player that season and led the Oilers to their second of five Stanley Cup championships in seven years.
These players, along with many others, have demonstrated the importance of a strong plus-minus rating in contributing to their team’s success. By playing solid defense and contributing to their team’s offense, they were able to make a significant impact on the ice and achieve some of the most impressive plus-minus seasons in NHL history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a player’s plus-minus in hockey?
A player’s plus-minus is a statistic used in hockey to measure a player’s on-ice impact on goals scored. A plus rating is given when a player is on the ice for an even-strength or shorthanded goal scored by their team. A minus rating is given when a player is on the ice for an even-strength or shorthanded goal scored by the opposing team. A player’s plus-minus is calculated by subtracting the number of goals scored against their team while they were on the ice from the number of goals scored for their team while they were on the ice.
Why is a player’s plus-minus important?
A player’s plus-minus is important because it provides insight into their overall contribution to their team’s success. A high plus-minus indicates that a player is making a significant positive impact on their team’s success, while a low plus-minus suggests that they may be a liability on the ice. Coaches often use plus-minus as a tool to evaluate a player’s effectiveness and determine their ice time and role on the team.
Can a player have a negative plus-minus rating?
Yes, a player can have a negative plus-minus rating. This occurs when a player is on the ice for more goals scored against their team than goals scored for their team while they were on the ice. A negative plus-minus does not necessarily indicate a lack of skill or effort, but rather that the player may be in a situation where they are more likely to be on the ice for goals scored against their team.
Is a player’s plus-minus affected by special teams play?
Yes, a player’s plus-minus is affected by special teams play. If a player is on the ice for a power play goal scored by their team, they do not receive a plus rating. Conversely, if a player is on the ice for a shorthanded goal scored by their team, they do receive a plus rating. If a player is on the ice for a power play goal scored by the opposing team, they receive a minus rating.
What are some limitations of the plus-minus statistic?
While the plus-minus statistic can be useful in evaluating a player’s on-ice impact, it has some limitations. For example, a player’s plus-minus can be influenced by factors beyond their control, such as the quality of their teammates or the opposition, the team’s overall defensive strategy, and even luck. Additionally, plus-minus does not take into account a player’s individual offensive or defensive contributions or their overall skill level.
What is a good plus-minus rating?
What is considered a good plus-minus rating varies depending on the player’s position, role on the team, and the team’s overall performance. Generally, a plus-minus rating of +10 or higher is considered excellent, while a rating of -10 or lower is considered poor. However, it’s important to consider a player’s plus-minus in the context of their overall performance and the team’s style of play.