Evaluating Hockey Players Using Andersen and Petersen's Super-Efficiency Model: Who is the Best Czech Hockey Player in the NHL?

Abstract Introduction. The aim of this article is to measure and assess the efficiency of Czech hockey players in the NHL, to create a ranking, and to reveal the best Czech hockey players in the NHL. Material and methods. The methodology is based on data envelopment analysis (DEA), namely a basic input-oriented model with constant returns to scale and an advanced Andersen and Petersen's model. Using the Andersen and Petersen's model, a ranking of the best Czech forwards, defenders, and goalkeepers was created based on the super-efficiency scores. DEA models worked with several variables and allowed for greater objectivity to be incorporated into the rankings. The input variable chosen was the number of seasons played. The output variables included the number of games played, the number of minutes played, the number of goals, the number of assists, save percentage, and the number of Stanley Cups won. Results. The research named Jaromír Jágr, Jan Rutta, and Pavel Francouz as the best Czech forward, defender and goalkeeper in the NHL in terms of technical efficiency. Conclusions. The ranking of hockey players based on super-efficiency scores revealed, among other things, that hockey players with a high number of seasons, games played or goals scored are not necessarily technically efficient.