1. What is Save Percentage?

Save percentage (Save%) is a statistic in ice hockey that represents the percentage of shots on goal a goaltender stops. It's calculated by dividing the number of saves by the total number of shots faced, then multiplying by 100.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the save percentage formula:

Where:

• \( saves \) — Number of shots successfully stopped by the goaltender
• \( shots \) — Total number of shots faced by the goaltender

Explanation: The formula shows what proportion of shots the goalie successfully saves, expressed as a percentage.

3. Importance of Save Percentage

Details: Save percentage is a key metric for evaluating goaltender performance in the NHL. Higher percentages indicate better performance, with elite goaltenders typically maintaining save percentages above .920.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the number of saves and total shots faced. Both values must be positive numbers, and saves cannot exceed shots.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is considered a good save percentage in the NHL?
A: Generally, .915 or above is good, .920+ is excellent, and .930+ is exceptional in today's NHL.

Q2: How does save percentage compare to GAA?
A: Save percentage measures efficiency (percentage of shots stopped), while GAA (goals against average) measures goals allowed per game. Both are important but measure different aspects.

Q3: Does save percentage account for shot quality?
A: Traditional save percentage doesn't, but advanced stats now track "high-danger save percentage" for more context.

Q4: What's the highest single-season save percentage in NHL history?
A: As of 2023, the record is held by Tim Thomas with .938 in the 2010-11 season (minimum 25 games).

Q5: How has NHL save percentage changed over time?
A: League averages have risen from around .900 in the 1980s to about .910 today due to improved goaltending techniques and equipment.