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Braden Holtby sets up at the outside post in his blue Columbus Blue Jackets gear during a wide-angle breakaway
Pro Reads

Braden Holtby ProRead 9

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With Braden Holtby

Setting Up Outside Post on Wide-Angle Breakaway

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With the Stanley Cup Playoffs fully underway, we were reminded that we still have a couple Pro Reads left to unveil with Braden Holtby, one of three Cup winners we’ve featured.

Holtby may have retired from the NHL ahead of this season but it would be silly to waste any insights from our lengthy in-person video session during the Vezina Trophy-winner.

THE SCENARIO

After more of a straight-on breakaway last time, Holtby is facing a potential 2-on-0 against the Columbus Blue Jackets this time, with Patrik Laine cutting in on more of an angle:

Braden Holtby set in crease facing 2-on-0 rush, skaters approaching in Washington Capitals game

As Laine corals that puck atop the top of the right face-off circle, what factors are you considering in terms of pass or shooting? Any thoughts on how Holtby sets up?

Braden Holtby set in crease as two Columbus Blue Jackets attackers enter zone on a 2-on-0 breakaway

Less than a second later, ask yourself the same questions as Holtby squares up on Laine?

What do you make of Holtby being almost outside that short-side post?

Are you thinking pass, shot or deke at this point? Why?

THE SAVE

Of course, speed matters on a chance like this, so look at the entire sequence:

THE PRO READ

Now let’s listen in on Holtby’s keys to managing this 2-on-0.

Still ahead in this article:

Holtby names the exact reason he overplays the short side on a 2-on-0 — and it starts before the pass is even a threat.

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Watch Braden Holtby break down the full video for you

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