What Does SOG Mean in Hockey?
By the TheyShoot editorial team. Updated
SOG means shots on goal. A shot counts as a shot on goal if it goes in, or if it would have gone in without a save by the goalie. Shots that miss the net, hit the post or crossbar and stay out, or are blocked by a skater are not shots on goal.
What counts as a shot on goal?
| Shot | Counts as SOG? |
|---|---|
| Goal | ✓ Yes |
| Saved by the goalie | ✓ Yes |
| Empty-net goal | ✓ Yes |
| Hits the post or crossbar and stays out | ✗ No |
| Misses the net | ✗ No |
| Blocked by a skater | ✗ No |
SOG vs shot attempts
Shot attempts include every shot: on goal, missed and blocked. Analysts call the total "Corsi"; shots on goal plus missed shots (without blocked shots) is "Fenwick". SOG is the narrowest of the three and is the number used for official stats and most betting markets.
SOG in betting: player shot props
A player shots on goal prop asks whether a skater will record over or under a line, such as over 2.5 shots on goal. Over 2.5 needs 3 or more. Props are settled on the league's official stats. Most sportsbooks include overtime in shot props but not the shootout; check the rules before you bet.
Save percentage and SOG
A goalie's save percentage is saves divided by shots on goal faced. A goalie who stops 28 of 30 shots on goal has a .933 save percentage for the game.
FAQs
Does hitting the post count as a shot on goal?
No. A shot that hits the post or crossbar and stays out of the net is not a shot on goal, because the goalie did not have to make a save.
Does a goal count as a shot on goal?
Yes. Every goal is also a shot on goal.
What does SOG mean in a box score?
SOG in a box score is the number of shots on goal a player or team recorded in the game.