Save Percentage (SV%) is a pivotal metric in hockey that quantifies a goalie’s performance by illustrating the proportion of shots on goal that are successfully saved, thereby preventing the opponent from scoring.
Result: 0.000
This calculation offers a glimpse into a goaltender’s efficiency and reliability on the ice, allowing coaches, analysts, and fans to understand the extent to which a goalie contributes to the defensive solidity of a team. Not only does it measure individual performance, but it also indirectly impacts team success by mitigating the opponents’ scoring opportunities.
Formula – How to Calculate Save Percentage
SV% is computed using a straightforward formula that takes into account the total number of saves made by a goalie and the total number of shots on goal by the opposing team. The formula is expressed as follows:
SV% = Total Saves / Total Shots on Goal x 100
Here,
Total Saves refers to the number of shots directed at the goal that the goalie successfully deflects or stops. Exclude saves originating from a shootout scenario. Ensure not to incorporate shots that have been obstructed by an alternate player (termed as a blocked shot) or a shot that doesn’t successfully reach the net, either by deviating off-course or by striking the goalpost (identified as a missed shot).
Total Shots on Goal is the total number of shots taken by the opponents that would have entered the goal if not saved by the goalie. Exclude any attempts derived from a penalty decider series. Additionally, do not account for an endeavor obstructed by an alternative athlete (shielded attempts) or a strike that either deviates from or impacts the goal framework without entry (errant attempts).
It’s crucial to note that the higher the SV%, the better a goalie is presumed to be at preventing goals, as they are stopping a larger percentage of shots.
Example
Let’s delve into a practical example to illustrate how the SV% is calculated.
Suppose a goalie faces a total of 35 shots during a game and manages to successfully save 32 of them. Using the formula:
SV = 32 / 35 x 100 = 91.43%
In this scenario, the goalie has a Save Percentage of 91.43%, indicating a robust performance as they managed to thwart most of the opposing team’s shots on goal.
FAQ
SV is instrumental in evaluating a goaltender’s prowess and consistency in thwarting scoring attempts. A higher SV% indicates a goalie who can reliably fend off shots, providing a solid last line of defense and thereby augmenting the team’s likelihood of success.
No, it’s mathematically impossible. The SV ranges from 0% (no saves made) to 100% (all shots on goal saved). A SV% of 100% indicates a flawless performance where every shot on goal was saved.
While both SV% and GAA are metrics for evaluating goaltenders, they offer different perspectives. SV focuses on the proportion of saved shots relative to total ones faced, without considering the game duration. On the contrary, GAA represents the average number of goals allowed by a goalie per 60 minutes of play, providing insight into the goaltender’s performance relative to game length.
While a higher SV% is generally favorable, it isn’t the sole indicator of a goalie’s skill. It’s important to consider other factors and metrics, such as the quality of opposition, defensive team play, and high-danger save percentage, to procure a holistic view of a goaltender’s competence and reliability.
In most professional leagues, saves and shots during penalty shootouts are not included in the calculation of Save Percentage, keeping the focus on a goaltender’s performance during regular and overtime play.