IHM Knowledge Center
What Is the Difference Between Corsi and Fenwick?
Both Corsi and Fenwick measure shot attempts, but why do analysts separate them, and what does that difference actually show?
Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: April 26, 2026
Short Answer
Corsi counts all shot attempts, including blocked shots. Fenwick excludes blocked shots and only counts attempts that are not blocked.
Full Explanation
Corsi and Fenwick are closely related hockey analytics metrics used to measure puck possession and offensive pressure.
Both track shot attempts, but they differ in one key area: blocked shots.
- Corsi: shots on goal + missed shots + blocked shots
- Fenwick: shots on goal + missed shots
This difference changes how each stat is interpreted.
Corsi includes every attempt, which makes it a broader measure of total pressure and puck possession.
Fenwick removes blocked shots, focusing only on attempts that actually reach the net area or pass through defensive layers.
How the Difference Affects Analysis
The inclusion or exclusion of blocked shots changes what each stat represents.
Corsi reflects total offensive activity, including attempts that are stopped before reaching the net.
Fenwick focuses more on attempts that have a chance to become scoring opportunities.
This makes Fenwick slightly closer to measuring offensive effectiveness, while Corsi is more about overall puck control and pressure.
NHL vs IIHF Context
Both Corsi and Fenwick are primarily used in NHL analytics, where detailed tracking allows for accurate measurement.
In IIHF competitions, these metrics can still be applied, but their interpretation may vary depending on data availability and game style.
The core definitions remain the same across all levels of hockey.
Why This Difference Is Controversial
The difference between Corsi and Fenwick is debated because analysts disagree on the value of blocked shots.
Some argue that blocked shots still represent offensive pressure and should be included.
Others argue that a blocked shot does not test the goalie and should not be treated the same as an unblocked attempt.
This creates two perspectives:
- Corsi values total pressure
- Fenwick values potential scoring opportunity
Both views are valid depending on what you are trying to measure.
Edge Case: Teams That Block a High Number of Shots
An important edge case occurs when a team blocks a large number of shots.
In this situation:
- Corsi may show strong offensive pressure from the attacking team
- Fenwick may show lower offensive impact because many shots are blocked
This reveals something important about the defending team. It shows strong shot-blocking structure and commitment to protecting the net.
This is why using both metrics together provides better understanding than using only one.
IHM Signal System: How to Read Corsi vs Fenwick
To interpret these stats correctly, focus on these signals:
- Shot suppression: Is the defense blocking many attempts?
- Net access: Are shots reaching the goal area?
- Pressure type: Volume pressure vs real scoring threat
- System structure: Does the team allow outside shots?
Trigger-level rule:
If Corsi is high but Fenwick is significantly lower, the offense is almost always being neutralized by shot-blocking before reaching the net.
This indicates pressure without efficient scoring threat.
IHM Insight: Why This Difference Matters
The difference between Corsi and Fenwick helps explain how defense impacts offense.
A team may appear dominant in total shot attempts, but if many of those attempts are blocked, the real scoring pressure is reduced.
This is why advanced analysis often compares both metrics instead of relying on one.
Mini Q&A
What is the main difference between Corsi and Fenwick?
Blocked shots are included in Corsi but excluded in Fenwick.
Which stat is more accurate?
Both are useful for different purposes.
Why remove blocked shots?
Because they do not reach the net.
Does Corsi measure possession?
Yes, it is often used as a proxy for puck possession.
Should both be used together?
Yes, combining them gives better insight.
Why This Rule Exists
The distinction exists to separate total offensive pressure from attempts that actually reach the net area.
This allows analysts to better understand both possession and scoring potential.
Key Takeaways
- Corsi includes all shot attempts
- Fenwick excludes blocked shots
- Corsi measures total pressure
- Fenwick focuses on unblocked attempts
- Using both gives better analysis