1. What is NHL Save Percentage?

Save percentage (often abbreviated as SV%) is a statistic in ice hockey that represents the percentage of shots on goal a goaltender stops. It's a key metric for evaluating goaltender performance in the NHL and other hockey leagues.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard save percentage formula:

Where:

• \( Goals\ Against \) — Number of goals scored against the goaltender
• \( Shots\ Against \) — Total number of shots faced by the goaltender

Explanation: The formula calculates the proportion of shots that were saved by the goaltender. A higher percentage indicates better performance.

3. Importance of Save Percentage

Details: Save percentage is crucial for evaluating goaltender performance, comparing goalies across different teams, and making roster decisions. NHL average typically ranges between .900 and .920.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the total goals allowed and total shots faced by the goaltender. Shots Against must be greater than 0, and Goals Against cannot exceed Shots Against.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is considered a good save percentage in the NHL?
A: Generally, .915 or above is considered good, .920+ is excellent, and .900-.910 is average.

Q2: Does save percentage account for shot quality?
A: No, traditional SV% treats all shots equally. Advanced metrics like "high-danger save percentage" account for shot quality.

Q3: How does this differ from goals against average (GAA)?
A: GAA measures goals allowed per 60 minutes, while SV% measures the proportion of shots saved regardless of time played.

Q4: What's the highest single-season save percentage in NHL history?
A: As of 2023, the record is .942 by Jacques Plante in 1970-71 (minimum 25 games played).

Q5: Why might two goalies with the same SV% have different performance?
A: Factors like team defense, shot volume, and shot quality can affect the context behind the same SV%.