Data Stories

Students in the Data Lab develop innovative data-driven web applications, interactive graphics and in-depth web projects. They serve as lead producers for CNS’ destination website and help test innovative new ideas to advance the practice of journalism.

Data Stories
On Twitter, creative, meme-filled conversations help NBA stand out

Far more than in other professional sports leagues, NBA teams’ official social presences have adopted online personas that mimic the meme-filled, emoji-heavy method of discourse favored by young digital natives.

Alex Ovechkin recorded four points against Chicago Wednesday, including a primary assist on Nicklas Backstrom's first-period goal. Photo courtesy Ben Sumner/Capitals Outsider.com.
Data Stories
Capitals’ first line dominates in 6-2 win over Blackhawks

The Capitals’ top line accounted for three goals in a four-minute span late in the first period Wednesday, propelling Washington to a 6-2 win over the Chicago Blackhawks at Capital One Arena.

The Shirley Povich Center for Sports Journalism
Despite fast start, Alex Ovechkin still trails all-time hat trick leaders

With his third hat trick of the season Saturday, Alex Ovechkin is quickly climbing the list of all-time hat trick leaders.

Data Stories
Deep pass struggles doom Flacco in worst season of career

Joe Flacco is having the worst season of his career, ranking as one of the league’s worst passers in 2017, a Capital News Service analysis found. This can be attributed, in part, to his reluctance to throw passes deep down field, an early-career trademark that helped him win a Super Bowl in 2012.

The Shirley Povich Center for Sports Journalism
Japanese phenom Ohtani could become best two-way MLB player since Babe Ruth

If Shohei Ohtani can successfully make the transition to Major League Baseball, he has the chance to become the first two-way player since Babe Ruth. But if he is anything like other stars who jumped from Japan, Ohtani will face an adjustment period in the U.S.

The Shirley Povich Center for Sports Journalism
Carlson’s two-point night lifts Capitals over Penguins

John Carlson registered his second two-point game in three contests in the Capitals’ 4-1 win against Pittsburgh at Capital One Arena Friday.

Data Stories
Major League Baseball players prefer hip-hop songs to get pumped up

Hundreds of Major League Baseball players enter the game to the sound of hip-hop, the most popular genre for MLB walk up songs, a Capital News Service analysis found.

The Shirley Povich Center for Sports Journalism
To build staff, Jay Gruden relied on his NFL coaching social network

To fill out his first NFL coaching staff, Jay Gruden drew on pre-existing relationships in the “coaching social network” he established during his decade as an assistant coach.

Nathan Walker has played hockey on three continents, including Australia, and could be skating on NHL ice this season. Photo by Sammi Silber.
The Shirley Povich Center for Sports Journalism
Globe-trotting Australian Nathan Walker on verge of making Capitals

After traveling halfway around the world and working his way up to the American Hockey League, the Australian is poised to make the Washington Capitals’ opening-night roster.

Data Stories
For Orioles, international market not as appealing

The Baltimore Orioles are lagging way behind the rest of Major League Baseball in signing international players, a Capital News Service analysis found.