Unmasking a Similarity Among NHL's Top Goalies, 1982-83 to 2022-23

Abstract

The authors examine the average height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) of number-one goaltenders across five decades, analyzing data from 137 goalies in five selected seasons. The findings reveal significant trends in goaltender size over the years, with goaltenders becoming taller and heavier, particularly since the early 2000s. However, despite these increases in height and weight, BMI has remained relatively stable and, in some cases, has even decreased. Comparisons between NHL teams that advanced to the playoffs and those that do not show minimal differences in goaltender size, indicating that size may not be a determinant of playoff success. The study sheds light on the nuanced relationship between goaltender size, playing style, and performance in professional hockey.