Chris Driedger Pro-Read 3 Managing a partial breakaway
Positioning, movement, stick placement to gain the advantage
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? )
It seemed fitting to have Chris Driedger lined up for another Pro Reads on May the 4th after he had baby Yoda (Grogu) and the Mandalorian on his mask to start the season, but aside from the Star Wars fandom it also made sense since he’s 13-6-3 with a .923 save percentage.
It also doesn’t hurt that Driedger, who is set to return from a lower body injury later this week, has been so insightful and open sharing tips and advice in his first two video breakdowns.
So, without further delay, let’s dig into his third Pro Reads.
The Scenario
This sequence against the Columbus Blue Jackets looks innocent enough in the neutral zone, but that one-on-one rush quickly becomes a breakaway for Liam Foudy as he gets a step on Florida Panthers defenseman Gustav Forsling coming across the blue line.
Taking a quick look at both Foudy as he reaches the top of the left faceoff circle, what factor can you identify that might provide a hint about what he might do here? Does the angle Foudy is attacking change your approach as a goalie compared to a straight on breakaway? How?
What do you make of Driedger’s depth outside his crease at this point?
THE SAVE
Let’s look at the entire save sequence now to see how Driedger handled it:
Watch Chris Driedger break down the full video for you
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.
- Driedger breaks down his save on a partial breakaway by Columbus Blue Jackets forward Liam Foudy, who gained a step on Florida Panthers defenseman Gustav Forsling at the blue line and attacked from the left faceoff circle angle.
- Driedger explains that the angle of Foudy's attack — coming across rather than straight on — directly influences how a goalie should manage depth and time the retreat differently than a traditional breakaway.
- Driedger identifies loading to push and stick management as the specific technical factors that allowed him to push across efficiently and complete the save.
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.