What’s a ‘Spread’ and When Should Goalies Use It?

Cam Talbot has delivered excellent advice and insights since returning to Pro Reads recently for his first video breakdown sessions since 2022, so we didn’t want to wait too long before getting the Detroit Red Wings goalie back in the mix. 
Not only has Talbot become a three-time NHL All Star Game goalie since his Pro Reads debut back with the Minnesota Wild, but he’s also a perfect guest because he credits a big part of that late-career rise to his work with Vizual Edge, which now sponsors the segment, and that training plays a role in this save breakdown.

THE SEQUENCE

This is a clear cut 2-on-1 entering the Detroit zone, with Jordan Kyrou carrying the puck in and Robert Thomas, a right shot, as his passing option:

Looking at the freeze frame as the play hits the top of the face-off circles (above), what stands out to you as a goalie? First off, what is the most important information do you need to know about the two players involved in this odd-man rush?
How does handedness affect how you might play this from a depth standpoint?
Given that information, what do you make of Talbot’s positioning above?
Are you taking more less or less ice than Talbot has above? Why?
Are you thinking pass or shot at this point?
Slide or skate if it is a pass?

THE SAVE

Because this is a rush chance, speed matters, so watch the play and ask yourself the same questions, especially when it comes to choosing depth:

Were you surprised by the pass, or did you expect it?
Now that you know it’s a pass, would you have chosen a different depth?
Do you think Talbot would agree? What did you notice about his back flow?
Lastly, do you have any thoughts on how he comes across on this?
Can you think of any reason he might pitch forward a bit as he comes across?

THE PRO READ

Now let’s hear from Talbot as he shares his thoughts on this 2-on-1:

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