Hockey
Goals Against Average Calculator
Calculate a goaltender's goals against average (GAA) — goals allowed per 60 minutes of ice time.
Informational only — not a substitute for official league statistics or professional judgment.
How it's calculated
Assumptions
- Shootout goals are excluded, matching the NHL's own statistical convention.
- Empty-net goals allowed while the goaltender is pulled for an extra attacker are excluded, since they weren't in net for the goal.
Source: NHL Official Guide & Record Book — Goaltending Statistics
Last reviewed: July 2026
Frequently asked questions
What's considered a good GAA in hockey?
In the modern NHL, a GAA below 2.50 over a full season is considered strong for a starting goaltender, and the very best often finish in the 2.00–2.30 range. League average typically sits closer to 2.80–3.00, though it shifts year to year with league-wide scoring levels.
Why does GAA use 60 minutes instead of just dividing by games played?
GAA is a rate stat per 60 minutes of ice time — a full regulation game — rather than per game, so it stays accurate even when a goaltender is pulled early, plays only part of a game in relief, or a game goes to overtime.
How is GAA different from save percentage?
Save percentage measures efficiency relative to shots faced (saves ÷ shots against), while GAA measures raw goals allowed per 60 minutes regardless of shot volume. A goaltender facing fewer shots behind a strong defensive team can post a good GAA without an exceptional save percentage, and vice versa.
Does GAA include shootout or empty-net goals?
Shootout goals are excluded, matching the NHL's own statistical convention of tracking the shootout separately from regulation and overtime play. Empty-net goals allowed while the goaltender is on the bench (not in net) are also excluded, since the goaltender wasn't the one who allowed them.
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