There’s a sports cliche that says defense wins championships.
In the NHL’s Stanley Cup playoffs, it might be goaltending.
There are, of course, exceptions to any rule, but in the evolution of hockey, the last line of defense—your netminder—plays the most critical role of any player on the ice. A big stop at the right time can save a game and a series. A bad night can cost you one.
Early in Round 2 of the postseason, it’s as evident as ever that strong netminding will be critical to making it to the final four.
Friday night, Marc-Andre Fleury bookended a solid second period with some sketchy stretches as his Pittsburgh Penguins dropped a 3-2 overtime decision to the New York Rangers on home ice.
He let in a long wrister, just the third shot of the game, to allow the Rangers some early energy in their third game in four nights.
Took break from my Raptors to check Pens-Rangers. Absolutely shocked to see Fleury whiff on long wrist shot. Habit Tony Espo had near end.
— David Shoalts (@dshoalts) May 2, 2014
3rd shot of game and Pouliot beats F ...
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Article written by Steve Macfarlane
Great Goaltending Is Critical Piece of Winning Puzzle in Round 2 of NHL Playoffs
May 2nd, 2014 by Steve Macfarlane Leave a reply »
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