What separates pure goal scorers from everyday NHL players? Let’s follow their Ten-Fold Path:
Mindset: Every prolific NHL goal scorer begins each shift with the idea that, “It is possible for me to score on this shift.” The goal scorer doesn’t worry about how he will score. He’s just totally open to the possibility that he will score.
Play Recognition: The goal scorer puts great emphasis on understanding where the puck is likely to be next, based on where it currently is. Like a chess master, he allows himself to think one, two, even three moves ahead of where the puck will be, while chaos and danger churn all around him.
Shift Management: Pure goal scorers understand the ebbs and flows of a typical NHL shift. They know when to use maximum energy on a shift. The goal scorer doesn’t burn his shift fuel during harmless situations. He moves like the predator he is, striking at just the right moment.
Space Dominance: The goal scorer takes control of the space he likes to score from. The more complete the goal scorer, the more spaces he thrives in. He takes control of his “shooter’s space” by moving there at the right time and in the right way, with or without the puck. He may or may not be physically gifted or strong, but his space dominance reflects the ways in which he scores goals.
Shot Arsenal: The pure goal scorer hones his scoring approach to what works best for him. He uses the shot types that are money most often. He works on generating a quicker release and creating more shot deception to maximize the effectiveness of his shot arsenal.
Skating IQ: The goal scorer’s skating shouts at teammates to give him the puck. Whether he is bursting through a neutral zone seam or slowly gliding into an open, soft space in the offensive zone, the goal scorer uses his skating style to demand the puck for a scoring chance he has just created.
Net Vision: Pure goal scorers see a shot path to a goal from anywhere they shoot. They’ve trained themselves to focus on how the puck can go in, not on goalie fixation.
Separation of Hands and Feet: The goal scorer’s hands and feet can operate independently of each other. That is, the goal scorer is capable of “calm hands, dynamic feet” whenever the goal-scoring opportunity requires it.
Stick Choice: The pure goal scorer chooses a hockey stick that best fits his shot arsenal and playing style. It’s a mindful choice which reflects his need for consistent, high-level performance. Stick length, stick lie, shaft flex, curve type, curve depth, face angle, even stick blade flex are all evaluated.
Change: The goal scorer is a serious student of the game. He knows that in order to produce at high levels, he must be willing to change what needs to be changed from any one of the other nine paths.