What Does +/- Mean in Hockey Stats?

In hockey statistics, the plus/minus stat (written as +/-) is used to measure how a player impacts the game when they are on the ice. It tracks whether their team scores or allows goals while they are playing during even-strength situations.

This stat helps show how well a player contributes to their team’s overall performance during a game.

How the Plus/Minus Stat Works

A player receives a “plus” (+1) when their team scores a goal while they are on the ice during even-strength play. This means they were part of the lineup helping create the scoring opportunity.

A player receives a “minus” (-1) when the opposing team scores a goal while they are on the ice during even-strength play.

For example:

• If a player is on the ice when their team scores two goals, they receive +2.

• If they are on the ice when the opposing team scores once, they receive -1.

Their total plus/minus for the game would be +1.

Situations That Do Not Count

Not every goal counts toward the plus/minus stat. Goals scored during power plays or penalty kills usually do not affect a player’s plus/minus rating. The stat mainly focuses on what happens during normal five-on-five play.

Why the Stat Is Important

The plus/minus statistic is often used to evaluate how effective a player is both offensively and defensively. A high plus/minus rating can indicate that a player helps their team score while preventing goals against.

This stat is commonly tracked in professional hockey, including in the National Hockey League, where analysts and fans use it to evaluate player performance throughout the season.