Hockey analytics have become more prominent over the years, with many NHL teams embracing the importance of analytics and hiring statistical staff to bolster their squads.
I’m going to be totally honest: this is one of my weak spots when it comes to hockey. I am unfortunately not one of those people who can sit down and explain what xG or Fenwick or goals above replacement means. I fully admit that I have not dedicated the time or energy to understanding what these ‘fancy stats’ mean - but that doesn’t mean that I don’t recognize the value of analytics, or how NHL teams utilize them.