2023-24 NHL season has revealed some surprising trends among teams, including those with poor save percentages, struggles on the road, and impressive special teams. The Athletic recently asked its NHL staff to provide a stat that sums up each team’s performance so far, and several areas stood out. What key number defines your favorite team’s season? Let’s explore the defining stats for all 32 teams.
First, the Anaheim Ducks have struggled with discipline, leading the league in minor penalties at 115. As a result, they’ve been unable to overcome spending too much time in the penalty box, which has contributed to their recent eight-game losing streak.
In contrast, the Arizona Coyotes have seen a significant improvement in their power-play percentage, moving up to sixth in the league. This progress is attributed to the team’s investment in experienced NHL players, resulting in visible contributions from newcomers and existing players.
The Boston Bruins have had exceptional goaltending this season, with a .921 all-situations save percentage. Goalies Jeremy Swayman and Linus Ullmark have played a critical role in the team’s success, despite a recent three-game losing streak that revealed some defensive vulnerabilities.
Meanwhile, the Buffalo Sabres have experienced a noticeable decline in offensive performance, dropping from third to 22nd in the NHL for goals scored per 60 minutes. This regression has hindered their overall success and playoff prospects.
The Calgary Flames have struggled with their power play, ranking 29th in the league with an 11% conversion rate. This area remains a concern for the team as they seek to improve their performance going forward.
On the defensive end, the Carolina Hurricanes have faced challenges with their save percentage, ranking last in the league at .873. This has been exacerbated by the loss of key goaltender Frederik Andersen to a blood clotting issue, creating further uncertainties for the team.
For the Chicago Blackhawks, the standout stat is Connor Bedard’s impressive performance, with 10 goals and eight assists in 21 games. Bedard’s production has made a significant impact on the team’s overall performance and is a promising sign for their future success.
The Colorado Avalanche have excelled in penalty kill, ranking fifth in the NHL. Their success in this area has contributed to their consistent performance and positioning as a strong contender for the Stanley Cup.
The Columbus Blue Jackets have faced challenges with their highest-paid forwards, Johnny Gaudreau and Patrik Laine, who are both performing below expectations and struggling to produce as top-line players.
In contrast, the Dallas Stars have excelled in penalty-kill percentage, at 88.9%, contributing to their strong position in the standings despite some inconsistencies in their offense and power play.
The Detroit Red Wings have seen a significant improvement in their goal-scoring, ranking among the top teams in the league. Their offensive progress has been a key factor in putting them in a playoff position at the quarter mark of the season.
This season has also revealed the importance of good goaltending, as emphasized by the struggles of teams with low save percentages. As the 2023-24 NHL season continues, these trends will continue to shape the competitive landscape of the league.
Sarah Anderson dives into the fast-paced world of NHL hockey. Her coverage includes game analysis, player spotlights, and the latest news from the ice. Sarah’s dedication to the sport ensures that hockey enthusiasts stay informed about the NHL’s thrilling action.
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