The performance (and perceived regression) of the Buffalo Sabres’ defense had been a topic of discussion leading up the the All-Star break. A healthy contingent of the fan base has expressed the belief that the Sabres’ blueliners have performed poorly as of late, following a solid start to the season. For that reason, I took a look at the team’s shots-against metrics to try and determine if an actual regression has taken place, and if so, is it being exaggerated?
While digging myself deeper and deeper into the hockey analytics rabbit hole, individual and group performance trends began to distinguish themselves in the forward ranks as well.