Quote:
Originally Posted by 868904
Well you have to think the Flames have stats that say otherwise or the defensmen tell the coaching staff that they prefer Smith.
Because there is a belief within the organization that Smith’s puck handling is a benefit.
Not saying I agree with it.
|
Generally I trust this team's coaching staff given the overall results. And I don't know if Smith playing the puck helps or not.
But I do think that hockey, like all sports, has a bunch of stuff that are perceived as truths, that analytics are now providing the means to question the legitimacy of.
The best example i can think of is the belief that you shouldn't pull your goalie until about a minute remaining. That's always been the case.
Now you see teams doing it with 2 minutes or more remaining? Why? Because the analysis will tell you that's the optimal time.
I do wonder if having a goalie that plays the puck is a true benefit or just a perceived one.