Dustin Wolf Pro Reads 12

THE SEQUENCE

This time we’re looking at a defensive-zone face-off against the Colorado Avalanche, with the puck coming back to Norris Trophy-winning defenseman Cale Makar at the right point, and right-shot forward Martin Necas retreating to the far dot:

Between the title and that last paragraph, it kind of feels like we may have already given away the final result on this play. Despite that, take a look at the freeze frame above and ask yourself what information is the most important if you are Wolf?

What signs are there that Necas might be the primary threat?

What about Necas as a shooter matters most?

Now, perhaps most important to this discussion, and with the hint above that Necas final destination if the left face-off dot, are you skating or sliding across here?

List the reasons for your decision.

The Save

Now watch the save sequence and see if your answers matched Wolf’s choice:

Were you at all surprised to see Wolf start coming across on his feet on this one, especially given Necas is A. a one-time threat and B. firing from close range?

Maybe you already had the same answer. If so, remember your reasons why.

If you would have been sliding across, remember those reasons too.

Lastly, see if you can identify any keys to making this save. Hint: Wolf has discussed them several times over the years in this space while breaking down lateral saves.

THE PRO READ

Now let’s hear from Wolf’s thoughts on managing this play: