Pro-Reads with Craig Anderson
With Craig Anderson
Rush Chance with Options
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Imagine sitting down with one of the best goaltenders in the world and having him run a private video session for you. You and Craig Anderson, for example, as we did recently for this article, breaking down his game footage so he can show you exactly what he was thinking on a given play. Anderson showing you what he saw and how he took that into account as he made the save, often preparing for multiple threats, and multiple options for the opposing team. That’s what pro-reads is all about.
This is the second in our pro-reads series as we sat down with Ottawa Senators goaltender Craig Anderson between periods at a game in Vancouver. As always, the insightful veteran was generous with his time and provided lots for InGoal Members to think about.
The Situation
The Columbus Blue Jackets approach with numbers and the puck carrier Boone Jenner gains the line driving wide to Anderson’s blocker side while Zach Werenski gives Jenner a middle ice option.
Now before you watch the play develop, consider for yourself – what are the options here? What is the biggest threat Anderson has to consider? What other options might affect his read?
The Save
When you have your thoughts on this play, watch it through first on its own. See it develop – how was your read? How did Anderson do?
Anderson's Pro-Read
Now that you have seen it for yourself and had a chance to think about this play, watch the video below and we can see how Anderson considered the situation. Notice how his read enabled him to cut down the options he had to play and let him tilt the odds of a save in his favor.
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- Craig Anderson breaks down his save on a Columbus Blue Jackets 2-on-1, with Boone Jenner driving wide to Anderson's blocker side while Zach Werenski provides a middle-ice passing option.
- Anderson identifies the puck carrier as a no-shot option based on his angle, allowing him to commit to the pass rather than the shot.
- Trusting teammates to eliminate the backside threat is a key part of Anderson's read, reducing the number of options he has to play simultaneously.
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