Last week, we analyzed whether it was such a big deal for a team to get the first goal.  This week, the follow-up:  Is it the end of the world if you DON’T score first?  Judging by the figures shown last week, one would think so, with just a handful of teams below .500 when … Continue reading If you don’t score first, can you still win?

It has been debated over the years, many coaches believe it is the key to winning games, players feel the same way, but is it really important to score first?  Even if your opponent scores on you first, the score is only 1-0, is it that hard to come back from?   Apparently so, as just … Continue reading Scoring first, is it really THAT important?

If you have been a fan of the Montreal Canadiens in recent years, you surely have realized that a major flaw of the club is when they have the man advantage.  Last season, they were running at a 14.0% success rate on the powerplay.  This season, they are slighly better, at 14.3%.  But why is the … Continue reading Canadiens’ Powerplay Analysis

First, I’d like to begin by saying that I am not getting paid to write about a bunch of overpaid people, thus, I am underpaid like many other hard working non-sports people.  (Not that it really matters anyway…) Let’s start with a quick trivia question:  Has the average salary gotten higher, lower, or stayed the … Continue reading 2003-04 Salary Scan

Many analysts over the years have stated that one of the keys to success is that the defence needs to contribute with some goals on the scoresheet.  But is that statement accurate?  The stats shown below will tell the tale: Team (rank) Total goals D-man points D-man PPG (GPG) Detroit (1) 269 160 1.95 (0.45) Vancouver (2) … Continue reading Offence from the defence

Player stats: PLAYER GP G A PTS PIM Michael Ryder (73)* 7 2 3 5 0 Marcel Hossa (81) 8 2 2 4 0 Sheldon Souray (44) 6 2 1 3 32 Yanic Perreault (94) 7 2 1 3 4 Mike Ribeiro (71) 7 1 2 3 2 Stephane Quintal (5) 4 0 2 2 … Continue reading Final Players Pre-season Statistics