If you’re new to hockey or just curious about the stats behind the game, you’ve probably come across the term “plus minus” or “+/-” when watching National Hockey League (NHL) games. But what exactly does this mean, and why does it matter for you as a fan or someone trying to understand player performance?
Plus minus is a simple yet powerful stat that tracks whether a player is on the ice when their team scores or concedes goals during even-strength or shorthanded situations. It can tell you a lot about a player’s overall impact on the game, both offensively and defensively.
Curious to learn how it works, what it really reveals about players, and why some people debate its value? Keep reading, because understanding plus minus could change the way you watch hockey forever.
Plus Minus Basics
The Plus Minus in the NHL shows a player’s goal difference during even-strength or shorthanded play. It counts goals scored when the player is on the ice but not during power plays. A plus (+) is given if the player’s team scores. A minus (-) is given if the opposing team scores while the player is playing.
To find the Plus Minus rating, subtract the total minuses from total pluses. This number shows if a player helps their team score more than the other team. A positive number means the player’s team scores more goals when they play. A negative number means the opposite.
This stat is important because it shows a player’s impact at both offense and defense. Still, it depends a lot on the team’s strength. Players on strong teams usually have higher Plus Minus scores.
How Plus Minus Works
The plus-minus statistic shows if a player’s team scored or allowed goals while they played. A plus (+) is given when the player’s team scores at even strength or while shorthanded. A minus (-) is given if the opposing team scores in those same situations.
Power-play goals do not affect the plus-minus score. However, empty net goals count unless the scoring team is on a power play. This means if a player is on the ice when their team scores or allows a goal in these cases, their plus-minus changes accordingly.
This stat helps show a player’s impact on both offense and defense. But it depends a lot on the team’s overall strength. Players on strong teams often have better plus-minus numbers, while players on weaker teams may have lower scores, even if they play well.
What Plus Minus Shows
Plus Minus in the National Hockey League shows how many goals a player’s team scores versus how many goals are scored against them while that player is on the ice. It measures a player’s ability to contribute both offensively and defensively during even strength or shorthanded situations.
This stat helps to see if a player is good at two-way play, meaning they help score goals and stop the other team from scoring. It also reflects defensive contributions, showing if a player is reliable in their own zone.
Plus Minus depends a lot on the team’s overall strength. Players on strong teams often have better ratings. This means the stat is not perfect for judging individual skill alone. It shows how much a player’s team controls the game when they are on ice.
Examples Of Plus Minus
Positive Ratings show players who help their team score more goals than they allow. Players with high plus minus numbers often play well both offensively and defensively. They are usually on the ice when their team scores at even strength or shorthanded. This means they contribute to the team’s success in important moments.
Negative Ratings mean the player is on the ice when the opposing team scores more goals. This can happen if the player has weak defense or plays on a team with poor defense. Sometimes, bad luck or strong opponents affect this rating. It does not always show the full skill of the player.
Wayne Gretzky’s Record is a famous example of a high plus minus. He had a career plus minus of +520, one of the best in NHL history. This shows he was on the ice for many more goals for his team than against. It reflects his skill and strong team play.
Controversies Around Plus Minus
Team strength greatly affects plus minus. Players on strong teams often get better ratings.
Goalies can also change plus minus numbers. A great goalie helps teammates keep a higher rating.
Luck and chance play a role. Sometimes a player’s plus minus doesn’t show true skill.
Plus minus has limits for judging players. It does not clearly separate individual skill from team effort.
Many experts say plus minus is useful but should not be the only way to rate players.
Modern Alternatives
Advanced analytics offer fresh ways to see player impact beyond plus-minus. Corsi counts all shots on goal, including blocked and missed shots. It shows which team controls the puck better. Fenwick is similar but excludes blocked shots, focusing on unblocked shot attempts.
Expected Goals (xG) predicts the chance of scoring from each shot. It uses shot location, type, and situation. This helps measure player offense and defense more fairly.
| Statistic | What It Measures | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Corsi | All shot attempts (on goal, blocked, missed) | Shows puck possession and control |
| Fenwick | Unblocked shot attempts | Focuses on shots that could score |
| Expected Goals (xG) | Chance of scoring from each shot | Evaluates quality of shots and defense |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does +/- Mean In Hockey?
Plus/minus (+/-) in hockey tracks a player’s goal differential at even strength or shorthanded. Plus (+) means on-ice goals for; minus (-) means goals against. It reflects overall player impact but depends heavily on team performance and context.
What Is The Plus Minus Rule In Hockey?
The plus-minus rule in hockey tracks a player’s goal differential during even-strength or shorthanded play. Players earn a plus (+) when their team scores and a minus (-) when the opposing team scores while they are on the ice. Power-play goals do not count.
What Was Wayne Gretzky’s Plus Minus Rating?
Wayne Gretzky’s career plus-minus rating was +520. This reflects his strong impact at both offense and defense during even-strength play.
What Does A ‘+’ Mean In Nhl Odds?
A ‘+’ in NHL odds shows the underdog’s potential profit on a $100 bet. For example, +150 means a $100 bet wins $150.
Conclusion
Plus Minus in the National Hockey League shows a player’s impact on scoring. It tracks goals scored and allowed while a player is on the ice. A positive number means more goals for than against. A negative number suggests the opposite.
This stat helps highlight both offensive and defensive contributions. Yet, it depends on team strength and other factors. It does not always show a player’s true skill alone. Use Plus Minus as one of many tools to understand player performance.
It offers useful insight but needs context for full value.
