Welcome back to this week's edition of Analytics Advantage! As we approach the midpoint of the NHL season, the stakes are higher than ever for fantasy hockey managers seeking to maximize their rosters. This week, we focus on five players with distinct storylines: Alex Vlasic, Victor Olofsson, Fabian Zetterlund, Nazem Kadri, and Brent Burns.

Through the lens of standout performances, advanced analytics, and visualizations, we'll uncover trends that highlight these players' value, efficiency, and potential regression. As always, the goal is to equip you with actionable insights for data-driven fantasy decisions.

Methodology

For each player, we've analyzed their current-season performance using key metrics such as:

                •             Goals (G)

                •             Total Assists (A)

                •             Shots on Goal (SOG)

                •             Shots Blocked (BLK)

                •             Hits (HIT)

                •             Fantasy Points Per Game (FPPG)

                •             Time on Ice per Game (TOI/GP)

This week, the analysis also features visual tools, including:

                •             Stacked Bar Graphs: Comparing raw metrics to league averages for a clearer perspective on performance.

                •             Scatter Plot (FPPG vs. TOI/GP): Highlighting positional trends in player efficiency relative to their ice time.

                •             Bubble Chart (Goals vs. SH%): Investigating shooting efficiency to detect sustainability or regression potential.

Let's dive into the profiles of this week's spotlighted players.

Player Analyses

Alex Vlasic (CHI – D)

Alex Vlasic has carved out a solid role for the Chicago Blackhawks, delivering 2 goals, 14 assists, and 16 points over 32 games. His standout defensive contributions include 68 blocked shots, 24 hits, and 8.4 FPPG.

The stacked bar graph reveals Vlasic's defensive impact, where his blocked shots significantly outpace the league average. The FPPG vs. TOI/GP scatter plot places him among defensemen delivering consistent value at 23:45 TOI/GP. However, his offensive production remains below average, with just 2 goals on a low 4.08% SH%.

Fantasy Advice: Vlasic is a reliable high-floor option for leagues that emphasize defensive stats. His offensive upside may be limited, but his peripherals provide stable value.

Victor Olofsson (VGK – L)

Victor Olofsson has turned heads in limited action, with 7 goals, 2 assists, and 9 points in just 11 games. His 8.98 FPPG and 25.93% SH% flag him as a high-efficiency scorer, albeit with regression risks.

The stacked bar graph highlights his above-average goal-scoring and shot efficiency. The bubble chart (Goals vs. SH%) shows Olofsson as a clear outlier, benefiting from unsustainable shooting accuracy. On the FPPG vs. TOI/GP scatter plot, his 15:43 TOI/GP suggests he could see increased production with more ice time.

Fantasy Advice: Olofsson's efficiency makes him an intriguing option in points leagues, but his SH% signals likely regression. He's a short-term hold in deeper leagues.

Fabian Zetterlund (S.J – F)

Fabian Zetterlund has been a bright spot for the struggling San Jose Sharks, tallying 11 goals, 12 assists, and 23 points in 34 games. His 9.6 FPPG and all-around contributions make him a versatile fantasy asset.

Zetterlund's stacked bar graph highlights his well-rounded offensive production, with shots, goals, and assists all above league averages. The scatter plot positions him as one of the most efficient players relative to his 17:23 TOI/GP, while his 15.28% SH% appears sustainable given his high shot volume.

Fantasy Advice: Zetterlund is a valuable multi-category contributor with room for growth. He's a solid hold or even a buy-low candidate in leagues where managers overlook his steady production.

Nazem Kadri (CGY – C)

Nazem Kadri continues to be a dependable offensive force for the Calgary Flames. With 12 goals, 9 assists, and 21 points in 32 games, he has maintained a strong 9.77 FPPG.

The stacked bar graph shows Kadri's elite shot volume (103), placing him well above the league average. The FPPG vs. TOI/GP scatter plot confirms his efficiency, and the bubble chart signals that his 11.65% SH% is sustainable. However, Kadri's peripheral stats, such as hits and blocks, remain below average.

Fantasy Advice: Kadri's combination of consistent scoring and offensive volume makes him a reliable forward in most formats. Managers seeking multi-category depth, however, might look elsewhere.

Brent Burns (CAR – D)

The veteran Brent Burns remains a critical piece for the Carolina Hurricanes, delivering 2 goals, 6 assists, and 8 points in 31 games. His 6.95 FPPG reflects his role as a steady, defense-first player.

The stacked bar graph underscores Burns' defensive impact, with 44 blocked shots far exceeding the league average. His low 3.03% SH% on 66 shots indicates potential positive regression. However, the bubble chart suggests Burns' offensive production may remain limited unless his shooting accuracy improves.

Fantasy Advice: Burns is a dependable depth option in leagues emphasizing blocks and TOI. He may see an uptick in offensive production if his shooting percentage normalizes.

Key Takeaways

                •             Alex Vlasic: High-floor defenseman with strong peripherals; offensive upside is limited.

                •             Victor Olofsson: High-efficiency scorer but at risk of regression due to unsustainable SH%.

                •             Fabian Zetterlund: A balanced contributor with steady value and room for growth.

                •             Nazem Kadri: Reliable scorer with elite shot volume but limited peripheral contributions.

                •             Brent Burns: Veteran presence with defensive reliability and potential offensive upside.

How FPPG is Calculated

Tips for Fantasy Managers

                •             Monitor Shooting Percentages: Players like Olofsson and Burns may regress or improve based on SH%.

                •             Focus on Peripherals: Vlasic and Burns offer consistent defensive value.

                •             Capitalize on Ice Time: Zetterlund and Kadri's roles could expand, increasing their fantasy impact. (Both are on PP2, watch closely to see if a swap happens https://www.dailyfaceoff.com/teams )

Stay Connected

For further insights, personalized roster advice, or more detailed analysis:

                •             Twitter/X: @DH_staspup

                •             Email: staspup@proton.me

                •             Bluesky: stasp.bsky.social

Note: The insights presented here are based on data available as of December 18, 2024 from NaturalStatTrick