Welcome
114th issue.
NHL 2023-2024 has started, NBA isn't too far away. It's a good time to be a sports fan right now. MLB playoffs are in full swing (still waiting for the Astros to lose), the NFL is doing its thang, and College Football has hit the halfway mark. The only downside? Daylight is sprinting in the wrong direction, and the sun, for those of us who experience all four seasons, is becoming less reliable than an umpire calling balls and strikes.
The lineup this week is a goodie. Leading off, a hot topic (not the hipster/emo store), regarding layoffs in MLB playoffs. Apparently, the NBA GMs submit a yearly survey. Neat. Data says some things. Two interesting NFL situational questions are then addressed, followed up by a blossoming tennis star.
I am interested in sports-related data science opportunities within the betting or DFS space. Know someone I should chat with? I'll buy you a coffee.
This Week's Lineup
Layoffs Haven’t Hindered Playoff Teams Historically
A playoff format that gave higher seeds a disadvantage would be terrible for the sport. The current playoff format doesn't fit that bill, though.
The Good, the Bad, and the Wild From 21 Years of the NBA’s GM Survey
We now have over two decades’ worth of preseason predictions from the top decision-makers in the league. How often do they actually get it right?
Should Teams Be in the Shotgun in Short-Yardage Situations?
We're breaking this polarizing topic from all angles to determine whether teams should be in the shotgun in short-yardage situations.
Evaluating the outcomes of passing plays from a QB perspective
Beware, large font and interesting UX ahead. But good debate nonetheless!
Coco Gauff and the unknown of being a teenage Grand Slam champion
Some teen champions become greats like Nadal and Seles. Others find it harder. Gauff is well-equipped to be the former.
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Unexpected Points Added is curated and maintained by Patrick Hayes.
I have completed a Master of Applied Data Science from the University of Michigan; let's connect.
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