Goooooaaaaaaallllll!!

ESPN has clearly been increasing their coverage of the NHL in preparation of bringing the game back to the Worldwide Leader. They have actually started including most every NHL game highlight to SportsCenter and have included pullouts and spotlights - like what they did with their minute-and-a-half Winter Classic highlight. Last night, as it was a Barry Melrose night, they had the famous mulletted puppet on to talk pucks. They led the show with a remarkable Rick Nash goal and then had Steve Levy and Melrose gush about it. Here it is:


Now both of them called it the goal of the year, maybe of the last two years, before reigning in that comment by showing the Ovie-on-his-back goal. That may prove to be the goal of the century - whatever. The Nash goal was fantastic, don't get me wrong, but it wasn't even the goal of the year - this was:


And now I'll tell you why: While Nash's goal came at a better time (last minute of a tied game with 4-on-4 action), Toews' was more impressive; the baby Hawk did it against better defenders, at full strength and at full speed!

But if you are that hung up on context, then look at it this way - Nash's goal won a regular season game for Columbus against Phoenix - two mediocre young teams that will likely miss the playoffs. Toews' goal may have proven to be the spark that will reignite one of the Original Six franchises. It showed Chicago fans that the kids that the Hawks accumulated were actually the real deal and helped get the ball rolling to make them relevant again. ESPN has always been given to a bit of over-dramatization, especially when it serves their best interests. In this case, you shouldn't don't believe the hype, just admire the skill of both players and feel heartened because the NHL will be back on a real station soon.

 Goooooaaaaaaallllll!! The Art and Science of Scoring in Hockey

In the world of sports, there are few sounds as electrifying as the collective roar of a crowd when a goal is scored. In hockey, it's the triumphant cry of "Goooooaaaaaaallllll!!" that sends fans into a frenzy. Scoring a goal is the ultimate objective of the game, and it's a moment of pure joy and celebration. In this article, we will explore the art and science of scoring in hockey, from the anatomy of a goal to the strategies and skills that make it happen. So, lace up your skates and get ready to dive into the exhilarating world of goals in hockey.

Section 1: The Anatomy of a Goal

1.1 The Puck Crossing the Line

At the heart of every goal is the moment when the puck crosses the goal line, officially counting as a score. This split-second event can be a result of precision passing, a blistering slapshot, or a crafty deflection.

1.2 The Goalie's Perspective

From the goalie's perspective, stopping a goal is a relentless battle against the opponent's offensive onslaught. Goalies must track the puck's movement, anticipate shots, and make lightning-fast decisions to protect their net.

1.3 The Celebration

The euphoria that follows a goal is a unique aspect of hockey. Players celebrate with teammates, fans erupt in cheers, and goal horns blare. It's a moment of pure exhilaration that can turn the tide of a game.

Section 2: The Strategies of Scoring

2.1 Shooting Accuracy

One of the fundamental skills of scoring is shooting accuracy. Players must be able to place the puck precisely in the net, often targeting small openings between the goalie's pads or corners of the net.

2.2 Deflections and Screens

Scoring often involves deflections and screens. Players use their sticks to redirect shots, making it challenging for goalies to track the puck. Screens, created by teammates in front of the net, obstruct the goalie's view.

2.3 Passing and Playmaking

Hockey is a team sport, and goals often result from exquisite passing and playmaking. Teams create scoring opportunities through quick, precise passes that exploit gaps in the opposing defense.

Section 3: The Role of the Goalie

3.1 Positioning and Angles

Goalies rely on positioning and angles to make saves. They must be in the right place at the right time to minimize the net's open space and increase the odds of stopping shots.

3.2 Reactions and Reflexes

Reflexes play a significant role in goaltending. Goalies must react quickly to shots, making split-second decisions to block, glove, or kick away the puck.

3.3 Mental Toughness

Goaltenders need mental toughness to stay focused and resilient. They must shake off goals they've allowed and maintain confidence in their abilities.

Section 4: The Science Behind Scoring

4.1 Shot Velocity and Release

The speed at which a player releases a shot impacts its effectiveness. Faster shots are harder for goalies to react to, increasing the likelihood of scoring.

4.2 Shot Placement

Strategic shot placement is crucial. Players aim for areas where the goalie has less coverage, such as the "five-hole" between the legs or the top corners of the net.

4.3 Creating Traffic

Scoring often involves creating traffic in front of the net. This tactic obstructs the goalie's view and increases the chances of deflections and rebounds.

Section 5: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

5.1 What is the hardest shot ever recorded in hockey?

The hardest shot ever recorded in the NHL was 108.8 miles per hour (175.5 kilometers per hour), achieved by Zdeno Chara of the Boston Bruins during the NHL All-Star Skills Competition in 2012.

5.2 How do players practice their shooting accuracy?

Players practice shooting accuracy through drills that focus on targeting specific areas of the net. They also work on their release speed and accuracy during practice sessions.

5.3 What is the role of the "playmaker" in scoring goals?

The playmaker is often a forward who excels at creating scoring opportunities for their teammates. They use their passing skills and vision to set up goals, earning assists in the process.

5.4 How do goalies train their reflexes and reactions?

Goalies train their reflexes and reactions through specific drills that involve reacting to shots from close range. They also work on tracking the puck and anticipating the shooter's movements.

5.5 What are some of the most memorable goals in hockey history?

Memorable goals in hockey history include Bobby Orr's iconic "flying" goal in the 1970 Stanley Cup Finals and Paul Henderson's series-winning goal for Team Canada in the 1972 Summit Series.

"Goooooaaaaaaallllll!!" is more than just a cry of celebration; it's the culmination of skill, strategy, and passion that defines the essence of hockey. Scoring a goal is the ultimate achievement, and it encapsulates the artistry of playmaking, the precision of shooting, and the resilience of goaltending. Whether it's a perfectly placed wrist shot, a thunderous slapshot, or a deft deflection, every goal tells a story of teamwork and determination. As fans, we revel in these moments of euphoria, knowing that each "Goooooaaaaaaallllll!!" is a testament to the enduring allure of this incredible sport. So, the next time you hear that triumphant cry, take a moment to appreciate the art and science of scoring in hockey—the heart and soul of the game.