Table of Contents
What Is Save Percentage?
Save percentage represents the ratio of saves to total shots faced. SV% is preferred over GAA because it accounts for shot volume, making it a more accurate reflection of individual performance regardless of team defense quality. In modern NHL hockey, average SV% has risen significantly due to improved techniques and conditioning.
The butterfly style revolution fundamentally changed goaltending. What was elite SV% in the 1980s would be below average today, reflecting the evolution of the position and equipment standards.
SV% Formula
NHL Benchmarks
| SV% | Rating |
|---|---|
| .930+ | Elite (Vezina candidate) |
| .920-.929 | Excellent |
| .910-.919 | Good starter |
| .900-.909 | Average |
| Below .900 | Below average |
FAQ
What is a good SV%?
Above .920 is very good. League average is typically .905-.910. Elite goalies post .925+ over full seasons.
Why is SV% better than GAA?
GAA depends on team defense. A goalie facing 40 shots who allows 3 (.925) outperforms one facing 20 who allows 2 (.900), even with higher GAA.
Does SV% account for shot quality?
No. Advanced metrics like GSAx (Goals Saved Above Expected) use expected goals models accounting for shot location and game situation.