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🥅 Goals Against Average Calculator

Track defensive performance by computing goals-against average (GAA), goals per game, and workload per minute.

Regulation length sets the baseline for GAA calculation.

Include overtime minutes.

Used to display per-game averages.

GAA (Ice Hockey)

2.13

Goals allowed per 60-minute game

Goals per game

2.13

Minutes per game 60.0

Goals per minute

0.0354

Approx. 2.13 goals per regulation match

GAA adjusts goals against to regulation time. If you play lots of overtime or partial games, the minutes input ensures the metric reflects true workload.

How to Use This Calculator

1

Gather box score data

Sum total goals allowed and minutes played across the games you want to evaluate.

2

Enter minutes accurately

Include overtime (e.g., 65 minutes for OT hockey games) and partial game appearances.

3

Select the correct sport

Regulation game length varies by sport. This ensures GAA is normalized correctly.

4

Compare trends

Track GAA across stretches of the season, after lineup changes, or following goalie coaching sessions.

Formula

GAA = (Goals Against × Regulation Minutes) ÷ Minutes Played

Regulation minutes are typically 60 (hockey, lacrosse) or 90 (football). Substitute the appropriate value for your sport.

GAA reflects defensive efficiency but does not account for shot quality. Combine it with save percentage or expected goals to understand full performance.

Performance Context

A low GAA usually indicates strong goaltending and team defense. However, high shot volumes or defensive breakdowns can inflate the stat despite solid goalie play.

Ways to improve GAA

  • Limit high-danger scoring chances through structured defensive coverage.
  • Improve goalie rebound control to reduce second-chance goals.
  • Increase communication between defenders and netminder to avoid breakdowns.

Track GAA over time

  • Compare home vs. away performance and special teams impact.
  • Monitor trends after goalie coaching sessions or tactical changes.
  • Adjust training volume if fatigue correlates with late-game goals against.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good GAA?

In the NHL, under 2.50 is strong. For soccer keepers, under 1.00 across a season is elite. Context matters by league.

Does overtime affect GAA?

Yes. Add overtime minutes and goals to total minutes to ensure accurate calculations.

Should empty-net goals count?

Only if the goalie was in net. Empty-net goals are typically excluded from the goalie’s GAA.

How does GAA differ from save percentage?

GAA measures goals per game; save percentage measures goals per shot. Use both for a complete view.

Can I use this for team defense?

Yes. Enter team totals for goals allowed and minutes to evaluate defensive system performance.