Looking at team statistics for the 2014 season, the Rock are actually very solid on the defensive side of the ball. Therefore, why trade for a goaltender?
Though opponents playing Toronto are averaging a save percentage of .764, the Rock have a similar rate of .753. That exemplifies the goalies’ efforts in saving 75 percent of the shots they take, and it’s within 1 percent of the opponent.
The Toronto Rock have made 466 total saves this season, opponents have accumulated 480. They also have a power play percentage of 54.2.
Offensively, Toronto can’t complain either, though they can improve. Their averages are lower in goals and assists, but only by 15+/-. Those goals come from multiple players across the roster and the team is working very well together.
However, Toronto has allowed the second most amount of shots on goal in the league just behind Vancouver. Was shoring up their defense more of a priority?
There are different perspectives as to whether a draw sets the tone/momentum for a team. I’m the type of person to believe it does. When a team starts off on the right foot immediately, there is a certain psychological response in our brains and as teams that can be more of a push than being beat and having to play defense/catch-up. Currently, Toronto sits with a F/O percentage of 38.8, whereas opponents are doubling that percentage. Lack of face off success also impacts loose ball statistics, but my coach always said games are won on ground balls.
Offense, shot opportunities, and movement come from assisting and passing. The ball moves faster than a player and creates defensive shifting. The Rock currently have approximately 60 fewer assists on average than their opponents this season, which has negative impacts on the shot attempts.
If Toronto needs a better draw specialist or more offensive power, why’d they trade for a goalie? Post your thoughts below, or email us and we’ll include them in future posts.
