Quote:
Originally Posted by Bend it like Bourgeois
It’s why I don’t consider fancy stats ‘data’. They are an opinion expressed in numbers instead of words. Doesn’t make them worthless. In fact they can be interesting. But not more objective or accurate or telling than any other opinion.
I like the way they are presented in the write ups. The story is about the game. The stats are a perspective to add. (Not suggesting anyone doesn’t like the write ups, I’m sure all appreciate them).
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I would go so far as to say that they are quite often downright misleading. Last night is a great example.
Stats require specific criteria, obviously. High danger chances must be from home plate. Okay, but that means that any shot from the slot, that is above the dots, isn't considered high danger. Is what it is. EXCEPT, fans see the numbers are draw conclusions - only 1 high danger chance, compared to 12 for the Flames. Therefore the Flames were better.
But wait - the Jets had 12 shots from the slot, that were above the dots. Still potentially very dangerous, but don't count in that stat because they are a few feet further away.
If you dive into the data and digest it properly, there is some good information there. But most fans will see 12-1 and draw conclusions from that, when it does not accurately tell the story.