Jonathan Bernier Pro-Read 4: Depth management and a goal line stand
With Jonathan Bernier
Bernier shows tremendous poise, balance and compete in battling in the last seconds with the Dallas goaltender pulled for an extra attacker.
The #1 goalie vision & cognitive training tool trusted by over 50 NHL & AHL goalies.
“Vizual Edge has added a quality element to my preparation as a goaltender. I use the game day drills every game before heading to the rink. It’s a combination of recognition, reaction and focus that activates my brain and eyes to feel ready for what’s to come.” — Jordan Binnington
Save 10% on Vizual Edge monthly and annual plans using code INGOAL at check out! (InGoal Members receive a 20% discount – why not join today? )
This is our fourth Pro-Read featuring Jonathan Bernier, but it could probably count as two as the Detroit Red Wings goalie breaks down two separate elements while reviewing this video against the Dallas Stars: depth management in traffic and recovering in a scramble.
Bernier actually does his break down in reverse order in his Pro Read video below, starting with the scramble in tight and then looking back at the longer shot through traffic that created it, but for the sake of this review we’ll start in the order that events occurred.
The Scenario
Let’s start with the initial depth decision on the shot that leads to the scramble, but as you take a look at the photo below it’s worth noting Bernier had already made one tough save from close range in this sequence, and that this next shot came after that rebound went behind the net and was quickly batted back up into the high slot to create this chance:
Take a look at the photo above, where the shot is originating, passing options, and think about where you’d like to set up in the crease. What do you think of Bernier’s depth here?
The Save
From here, the play quickly turns into a scramble as the rebound spits out to Bernier’s right.
With the chance for a quick second shot, Bernier reaches out instinctively with his leg, and puts himself off balance. But rather than another freeze frame photo for you to consider, let’s take a look at the entire sequence, paying close attention to what Bernier does once he recognizes that quick rebound shot isn’t coming as a result of a nice play by his defenseman. Watch how he gets back over his knees, and the incredible save it allows him to make next:
Looking back at the sequence again, does it change your mind about the initial decision on depth? If Bernier is further out, does the redirected initial shot still hit him? Would he have time to recover, or would a reach be enough, for that second chance?
Interestingly, Bernier himself wasn’t happy with where he ended up. As you’ll hear in his video review session of the play below, he’s like a do-over on his depth, though his long discussion on the subject brings up some interesting points on whether more really is necessary.
The Pro-Read
Before Bernier gets to that talk about his positioning, however, he starts with his reaction to the scramble, including the tendency to end up on our backsides, and why recovering back to his knees is so important as a guideline to good goaltending, and not just crucial to this save:
Join thousands of goalies, parents, and coaches who train smarter with InGoal.
15+ years as the #1 goaltending resource
Already a member? Log in
Think you're seeing this in error? Contact support
Looking for a goalie coach?
Browse coaches in our directory — powerful search tools, contact coaches directly.
- Bernier breaks down his save on a high-slot shot through traffic and the resulting scramble against Dallas, covering two separate technique decisions in one sequence.
- After reaching out instinctively with his leg on a rebound and going off balance, Bernier recovers by getting back over his knees — a specific movement that allows him to make the next save.
- Bernier's depth on the initial shot is the key variable in the scramble: staying deeper kept the redirected puck on him, but raised the question of whether he had enough time and balance to recover for the second chance.
Comments
Let's talk goaltending!
We welcome your contribution to the comments on this and all articles at InGoal. We ask that you keep it positive and appropriate for all — this is a community of goaltenders and we're here for each other! See our comment policy for more information.
You must be logged in to view and post comments.