TORONTO – When it comes to analytics, Nino Niederreiter "doesn't know a whole lot." Yet, for much of his four seasons with the Wild, Niederreiter has been an analytics darling.
Take this season: Entering Wednesday's game against the Maple Leafs, according to corsica.hockey, Niederreiter led the Wild in Corsi (shot attempt differential while at 5-on-5, a possession measure) at 55.7, in goals-for percentage at 57.92 (30th among NHL forwards) and was fifth in scoring chance-for percentage at 58.33.
The numbers also show the Eric Staal and Erik Haula lines motor more efficiently when Niederreiter is on their left wing.
Niederreiter doesn't know why other than maybe it's just the way he plays. His strength is puck protection, which enables him to play a lot in the offensive zone.
"My main goal is to handle the puck down low, in the corners and try to get to the net, which is something I can help do on every line," Niederreiter said. "Obviously you know when you feel good or you feel bad and things are going the way you want them to go or not, but overall, analytics, I try not to pay too much attention to it."
Niederreiter ranks second on the Wild with seven goals, fourth with 15 points and eighth among forwards in average ice time (14:34 per game).
Niederreiter can become a restricted free agent if not re-signed by July 1. He says there have been no contract discussions yet with his agent.
"I have no idea how that's going to go," Niederreiter said. "It's something out of my control. I'll focus on playing my game and hope I can stay here as long as possible."