Level 3 · Lesson 2

Reading the Play: Rushes, Breakaways and Zone Time

Use clues from the puck carrier and the situation to know what's likely before it happens, then react quickly to what actually does happen.

Reading the play means using clues from the puck carrier, as well as the situation, to know what's likely to happen before it happens, then reacting quickly and precisely to what actually does happen. At Level 3 you read three kinds of plays. First off is rushes; 1-on-1, 2-on-1, 2-on-2, 3-on-1, 3-on-2, where the other team has possession and is coming your way with speed. Then on to breakaways, when a player on the other team has the puck and open space and no defenders between them and the net (except you). Lastly, sustained pressure, where the other team has possession in your zone and is set up to make plays.

In this breakdown

Why goalies use it
The big idea: get there early, be patient, react quickly
Clues to read
Rushes
Breakaways
Sustained zone time
How to do it
Common mistakes and fixes
Put it together

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