I spotted this comment deep in a Blue Line column from The Hockey Prospectus. The subject was why scoring is down in the NHL.
Now go back and watch the first three goals by the Flyers. Relax, I will wait for you to come back.
Good to have you back. Ready? Well you must keep in mind this was posted on Wednesday, well before the Sabres would play host to the Flyers.
Here's the item of note:
"We also need to look at goaltender's numbers differently. For example, Ryan Miller's save percentage was .914 in 2005-06, which was 0.13 above league average. If he had the same save percentage now, he'd be below average. While .915 used to be good, now it's average. Adjust accordingly."
OK, so the author, Matthew Coller, was talking about the overall improvement of goaltenders' play this season, but he could not have seen the extent to which we needed to adjust our view of the Sabres' Miller. To add insult to injury, NHL.com has as its Frozen Moment of the day the photograph of Scott Hartnell scoring on Miller in the Flyers' 3-2 victory. It was a short night, and therefore, a long night for Miller.
Now, will the Sabres adjust the starting lineup for Friday's visit by the Flames? Hmm......
And the next time Mr. Coller writes something about your team's goaltender BEFORE the game begins, take note.
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