Pro-Reads with Freddie Andersen
Facing an Alex Ovechkin 1-Timer and other PP Advice
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With NHL training camps opening this week, it felt like a perfect time to go back to one of our first Pro Reads participants, Frederik Andersen of the Carolina Hurricanes.
Andersen was an immediate favorite after sitting down for an in-person video session at the rink while he was with the Toronto Maple Leafs, and he continued to share great insights into how to read attacks in a Zoom session after signing with the Hurricanes last season.
THE SCENARIO
This clip actually came courtesy of Hurricanes goalie coach Paul Schonfelder and features a Washington Capitals power play anchored, of course, by Alex Ovechkin’s one-timer.
With Ovechkin loading up his famous shot (did you know it can actually curve because of that hook on the end of his blade? Seriously, it does) on a cross ice pass from the opposite point, what do you make of Andersen’s positioning right before the one-timer?
What do you think of his depth? What do you think of his stance?
THE SAVE
Now watch the entire sequence in real time and ask yourself the same questions:
It’s a seemingly simple save, though that’s hardly a fair statement when arguably the game’s greatest goal scorer is winding up for a shot that he’s converted more than anyone else.
Was there anything about the way Andersen managed this chance you liked?
THE PRO READ
There are some simple keys to how Andersen defended Ovechkin that apply to a lot of power plays, especially those anchored by a strong shot on the flank, and increasingly common trend:
Watch Freddie Andersen break down the full video for you
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- Andersen breaks down his save on Alex Ovechkin's one-timer during a Washington Capitals power play, with the clip provided by Hurricanes goalie coach Paul Schonfelder.
- Andersen stays patient and does not commit early to the point shot, which lets him move on his skates to get set before the one-timer rather than sliding across after the pass.
- Ovechkin's one-timer can actually curve due to the hook on his blade — a detail Andersen and Schonfelder flag as part of understanding the specific threat his shot presents.
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