As I mentioned yesterday, one thing I've been looking at closely of late is scoring chance numbers.
While it's not an exact science, and opinions on what classifies as a scoring chance compared to what doesn't varies from person to person, generally those who follow hockey closely would have similar numbers to others who do the same, and track data.
SomeKindOfNinja.com has a nice database of all NHL players and their scoring chance numbers, and allows you to sort through distance of the chance, game situation, and more.
I recently posted the numbers for Blue Jackets defensemen, and they more or less confirmed James Wisniewski is criminally underrated.
Here are the numbers for Jackets forwards.
A few notes off initial look a) Brandon Dubinsky is much better than people give him credit for, and his possession numbers suggest those scoring chance rates are accurate; b) Matt Calvert is one of the best players the casual fan has no idea exists, and; c) Ryan Johansen took huge steps forward this year, but still has a ways to go.
Before everyone busts on Johansen for his mediocre numbers, they should know Johansen faced the toughest competition opposing teams had to offer on a nightly basis. He also started a good portion of his shifts in the defensive zone. There's room for improvement, but he's already borderline elite.
It'll be fun to watch him turn into a true star over the next few seasons, especially after the first couple seasons of his pro career went.
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Email: NHLToddCordell@Gmail.com