Breaking Down a Breakaway vs the Greatest Scorer in History
With Joseph Woll
Joseph Woll Pro Reads - Quiet Feet, Backflow and Hand Projection on Breakaways
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THE SCENARIO
After a highlight reel backdoor save and 5-in-3 in his last two entries, this time Woll is facing the greatest goal scorer of all time, Alexander Ovechkin, on a breakaway from the blue line. Since there really isn’t much to freeze frame on a play like this, let’s go straight to the video.
THE SAVE
Watch Ovechkin’s breakaway play out in real time and try to identify what Woll does well, while also seeing if you can identify any cues on Ovechkin shooting or decking – and how early.
What did you notice about Woll’s depth? What about his stance? His backwards momentum?
Did you notice anything from Ovechkin that might have hinted shot or deke? When?
THE PRO READ
Now let’s check in with Woll to get his keys to managing a breakaway.
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- Joseph Woll breaks down his breakaway save on Alexander Ovechkin, the greatest goal scorer in NHL history, explaining his approach to reading and reacting without overcommitting.
- On a breakaway or 2-on-1, Woll gets into a lower, set stance earlier than on multi-skater rushes (like 3-on-2 or 4-on-3), where east-to-west movement means a save stance isn't needed as soon.
- Woll generates back flow not by pushing back early with his feet, but by flexing deeper into his stance — weight shifting to his toes carries him back while his feet stay quiet, keeping him patient until the shooter commits.
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