Casey DeSmith ProRead 2
Sliding into Post or Staying above Post on 1T
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? )
Casey DeSmith has not just been one of the best backups and value contracts in the NHL since signing with the Dallas Stars before last season. DeSmith has been a top-15 goalie in the League since then.
Since signing a three-year, $3-million free agent deal — and that’s $3 million total, not per season — the 34-year-old has an adjusted save percentage of plus-0.8%, according to Clear Sight Analytics, which is tied for 12th in the NHL. DeSmith was kind enough to sit down with InGoal after a morning skate earlier this season to share some of the tactical and technical cues that have allowed him to play so well during this Pro Reads video breakdown session.
THE SEQUENCE
DeSmith is facing a controlled power play set up against the Seattle Kraken:
The puck has just been passed up to the top of the zone from DeSmith’s right at this point, so what are the primary threats at this point he needs to consider?
What matters the most about the passing option at the face-off dot to his left?
Does the fact it’s Eeli Tolvanen, who is well known for his shot, affect things?
Based on that information, would you be skating or sliding across if they next pass is to that player? Are you pushing right into your post or above it? Why?
THE SAVE
Watch the save below and ask those same questions:
What stood out to you about the way DeSmith played this cross-ice pass?
Can you think of a reason he slid outside his post rather than into it?
What about the rest of the sequence and his positioning?
THE PRO READ
Now let’s hear from DeSmith on how he saw and managed this chance:
It looks like you’re not an InGoal subscriber (yet). Below we’ve included a brief excerpt from the full ProRead to give you an idea of how it breaks down in the full video. We invite you to subscribe today to see the full ProRead – and hundreds more exclusive articles.
Watch Casey DeSmith 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.
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.