Did you know that a player’s shooting efficiency can have a game-changing impact on their team’s offensive performance? It’s true! And the metric that truly unlocks this offensive efficiency is the Effective Field Goal Percentage (eFG%). With eFG%, we can accurately evaluate a player’s shooting ability by considering the added value of three-pointers compared to two-point baskets.
Here’s an interesting statistic to hook you: did you know that an eFG% of 51% or higher is considered decent, while anything below 50% is considered subpar? This shows just how crucial it is for players to maximize their shooting efficiency.
In this article, we will delve into the calculation and comparison of eFG%, highlighting its importance in the game of basketball. We’ll explore its limitations and considerations, as well as the role of centers and power forwards who tend to dominate the top 25 players in eFG%. By understanding and mastering this game-changing metric, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for offensive efficiency in basketball. So let’s dive in and unlock the secrets of eFG%!
Key Takeaways
- Effective Field Goal Percentage (eFG%) is a basketball statistic that weighs the added benefit of a made three-pointer compared to a made two-point basket.
- eFG% is a better indicator of a player’s offensive contribution compared to regular Field Goal Percentage (FG%).
- To calculate eFG%, assign 1 point for every made two-point basket and 1.5 points for every made three-point basket, then divide by the total number of field goals attempted and multiply by 100.
- eFG% is one of the Four Factors used to predict a team’s success, along with offensive rebounding percentage, turnover percentage, and free throw rate.
What is eFG%?
I know that eFG% is a basketball statistic that was introduced in 2002 by Dean Oliver in his book ‘Basketball on Paper’. It is a better indicator of a player’s offensive contribution compared to regular FG%, as it weighs the added benefit of a made three-pointer. To calculate eFG%, you assign 1 point for every made two-point basket and 1.5 points for every made three-point basket, then divide by the total number of field goals attempted and multiply by 100. This calculation provides a more accurate evaluation of shooting ability, as it removes the bias of a higher overall FG%. eFG% is one of the Four Factors used to predict a team’s success, along with offensive rebounding percentage, turnover percentage, and free throw rate. By considering the added value of three-pointers, eFG% provides a clearer picture of a player’s offensive impact and can help teams identify their most efficient scorers.
Calculation and Comparison
When calculating effective field goal percentage (eFG%), it is important to assign 1.5 points to made three-pointers instead of 1 point for made two-pointers, highlighting the added value of three-point shots. This calculation allows us to properly weigh the impact of different types of field goals on a player’s offensive contribution.
To compare eFG% with regular field goal percentage (FG%), it is essential to understand that FG% only considers the number of made field goals out of total field goal attempts, without differentiating between two-pointers and three-pointers. On the other hand, eFG% takes into account the added benefit of made three-pointers.
In comparing the two metrics, eFG% provides a more accurate evaluation of shooting ability, as it removes the bias of a higher overall FG%. eFG% allows us to better understand a player’s efficiency and effectiveness on the offensive end.
Understanding the calculation and comparison of eFG% versus FG% is crucial for analyzing and evaluating offensive efficiency in basketball.
Importance in Basketball
The importance of effective field goal percentage (eFG%) in basketball cannot be overstated. This game-changing metric has significant impacts on team strategy and evaluating individual player performance. In terms of team strategy, eFG% allows coaches to identify players who can efficiently score points and contribute to the team’s offensive success. It helps in determining which players should be given more playing time and how the offensive plays should be structured. Additionally, eFG% enables teams to identify their strengths and weaknesses, allowing them to adjust their game plan accordingly. When it comes to evaluating individual player performance, eFG% provides a more accurate assessment of a player’s shooting ability compared to traditional field goal percentage. It takes into account the added value of three-point shots, giving a better indication of a player’s offensive contribution. Coaches and scouts heavily rely on eFG% to identify efficient scorers and make informed decisions when it comes to player acquisitions and game strategy.
Limitations and Considerations
One important consideration when using eFG% is that it may not fully capture a player’s overall offensive performance. While eFG% is a valuable metric for evaluating shooting efficiency, it does not take into account other aspects of a player’s offensive game, such as passing, playmaking, and scoring in different situations. Factors affecting eFG% accuracy include shot selection, offensive strategy, and the quality of teammates. For example, a player may have a high eFG% due to being set up for easy shots by their teammates, rather than their individual scoring ability. Additionally, team strategy and coaching can impact a player’s eFG%. Some teams prioritize three-point shooting, while others may focus on scoring in the paint, leading to variations in eFG% among players. Therefore, it is important to consider eFG% in conjunction with other metrics to get a more comprehensive understanding of a player’s offensive performance.
Role of Centers
As a basketball analyst, I understand the importance of considering the role of centers when evaluating a player’s offensive contribution. Centers have a significant impact on team success due to their ability to score efficiently near the basket. Their high field goal percentage and shot selection in the paint contribute to a higher eFG%, making them valuable assets on the court. However, it’s important to acknowledge the influence of teammates on a player’s eFG%. Centers often benefit from being set up by their teammates for easy shots, which can inflate their shooting percentages. Additionally, high-usage players like Nikola Jokic, Giannis, and LeBron demonstrate the ability to convert difficult shots at a rate comparable to players who primarily score off offensive rebounds and lobs. Therefore, while centers dominate the top 25 players in eFG%, it is crucial to understand their role and the types of shots they take to fully evaluate their offensive efficiency.
