Hockey is a game of strategy, skill, and intuition. For years, coaches, analysts, and fans alike have relied on traditional statistics such as goals, assists, and plus/minus ratings to evaluate a player’s performance. However, with the advent of player and puck tracking data, a new dimension of analysis has emerged that provides a deeper understanding of the game. In this article, we’ll explore how this data can help us measure shot quality and why it’s becoming an increasingly essential tool in the world of hockey analytics.
The use of advanced analytics in hockey has come a long way since the introduction of expected goals. Today, the NHL has microchips in pucks and jerseys, allowing for more detailed data on player and puck movements to be collected. This has enabled the development of a new tool called Opportunity Analysis. Opportunity Analysis is a machine learning model that analyzes millions of historical and real-time data points such as traffic, speed, and goalie position to gain insights into the scoring opportunity presented by each shot.
Opportunity Analysis allows us to measure the quality of chances created by a team, and not just the number of shots taken. This data is still in its infancy but has the potential to provide deeper insights into a team’s offensive and defensive strategies. For example, the Calgary Flames generate a lot of shots but fail to generate many quality chances. They rely on shots from outside the slot, which are less dangerous than the inner slot shots. By analyzing this data, teams can adjust their strategies to create higher quality scoring chances.
Opportunity Analysis considers several factors, including shot location and goalie positioning. These factors are evaluated using the chips in the goalie’s jersey, the puck, and the shooting player’s sweater. Goalie depth, distance, and height are also evaluated to determine the likelihood of a shot becoming a goal. This information can be used to provide a more accurate assessment of a team’s offensive and defensive capabilities.
In conclusion, the use of advanced analytics in hockey has come a long way, and with the implementation of microchips in pucks and jerseys, the data collected is more detailed than ever before. Opportunity Analysis is a new tool that allows us to measure the quality of chances created, helping teams adjust their strategies to create higher quality scoring opportunities. As this technology continues to develop, we can expect to see even more innovation in the field of hockey analytics.
In conclusion, the importance of player and puck tracking data in hockey cannot be overstated. By using this innovative technology and statistical analysis, we are gaining deeper insights into the game and the many factors that contribute to a team’s success. Shot quality is just one piece of the puzzle, but it’s a crucial one that can make all the difference in the outcome of a game. With the continued evolution of player and puck tracking technology, we can expect to see even more exciting developments in the future of hockey analytics. So let’s strap on our skates and get ready for a whole new level of analysis and enjoyment of the game we love.
