From Chicago Sun-Times · · 1m 20s
Blackhawks use analytics for goalie training
Blackhawks goalies get data to improve side-to-side saves.
In brief
Blackhawks goalies get data to improve side-to-side saves. Blackhawks goalies trained using analytics to focus on side-to-side saves after defense allowed frequent east-west passes. Originally reported by Chicago Sun-Times.
Blackhawks goalies get data
Blackhawks goalies received data to improve side-to-side saves after last season ended.
“That was cool to see”
Goalies focus on lateral movement
Goalies should focus on lateral movement and saving shots from east-west passes.
“You can see what we give up as a team”
Analytics department active
Blackhawks have used analytics for several years but kept data tools secret.
“We just didn’t do a good enough job [defending]”
Goalie coach verifies data
Goalie coach Jimmy Waite and scout Dan Ellis verified data accuracy with video.
“Scoring off the pass [and] scoring off east-west plays is very predictive”
East-west passes common
Young defense allowed frequent east-west passes last season.
“That’s not necessarily because of the system”
Soderblom works on footwork
Soderblom practiced being patient and springy on his feet in Sweden.
“You can’t dig in too much on the ice”
Commesso improves reaction
Commesso sent videos to scout Dan Ellis to improve reaction speed.
“If you’re able to zone in on what you give up primarily”
Analytics history
Former NHL goalie Steve Valiquette published 'royal road' concept in 2014.
“He called it the 'royal road'”
Coach Blashill's stance
Coach Jeff Blashill says analytics help but are not perfect for defensive skills.
“Scoring off the pass [and] scoring off east-west plays is very predictive”
Team focuses on defense
Blackhawks want to eliminate east-west passes in defense.
“That’s an area we want to eliminate more of those”
Goalies train for speed
Goalies work on quick movements and explosive power for shots.
“You can’t dig in too much on the ice”
East-west passes impact
East-west passes are critical for goalies to improve defense.
“That’s not necessarily because of the system”
Here's the gist
Blackhawks goalies trained using analytics to focus on side-to-side saves after defense allowed frequent east-west passes.
