Hockey analytics show Patrick Sharp’s scoring dropped as role changed – Chicago Tribune

Patrick Sharp is known as a finisher. But this season, his struggles to score have led to speculation as to the cause, ranging from the mundane to the ridiculous.

Many have suggested Sharp, 33, is aging and just doesn’t have “it” anymore. This explanation fails to hit the target because aging in the NHL usually leads to a gradual decline in production and performance over time, not the sudden, precipitous dive Sharp experienced this season.

So what it is? What is going on with Sharp?

After poring over Sharp’s numbers, the data would seem to indicate he has been affected adversely playing with a different line construction and some really bad luck. His shot-generation rate is as high as ever, but his shooting percentage is the lowest of his career.

Darryl Belfry, an NHL skills coach who counts Patrick Kane among his clients, explained that when Sharp was returning from injury, his timing was off, as is often the case with professional athletes. Being shuffled around different lines further hindered that timing.