Kukla's Korner Hockey

Kukla's Korner Hockey

Aim For The Five-Hole

09/13/2013 at 10:52am EDT

from Chris Johnston of Sportsnet,

Truth be told, this is no way to start a battle to become the No. 1 goalie of the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Jonathan Bernier readily admits that he’s allowed a steady stream of pucks through his legs over the last month – “Plenty … a lot,” he said – while adjusting to the new shrinking standard of goalie pads that will be introduced around the NHL this season.

As you might imagine, the changes aren’t very popular among the goaltending fraternity. Each of them has had the height of his pad reduced by between one and three inches as part of new regulations designed to help increase scoring.

Goalies are expected to become particularly vulnerable through the five-hole, where the top of their pads will cover much less space when they drop down to make a save.

“I changed my style a little bit,” said Bernier. “I think everyone’s going to have to adjust. Everyone is starting from scratch.”

continued

Create an Account

In order to leave a comment, please create an account.

About Kukla's Korner Hockey

Paul Kukla founded Kukla’s Korner in 2005 and the site has since become the must-read site on the ‘net for all the latest happenings around the NHL.

From breaking news to in-depth stories around the league, KK Hockey is updated with fresh stories all day long and will bring you the latest news as quickly as possible.

Email Paul anytime at [email protected]

Most Recent Posts

Most Recent Comments

Comment by dca in Abel to Yzerman from the entry Same Lineup Tonight - 1 minute ago
Comment by dca in Abel to Yzerman from the entry Same Lineup Tonight - 1 minute ago
Comment by dca in Abel to Yzerman from the entry Same Lineup Tonight - 4 minutes ago
Comment by Kate in Abel to Yzerman from the entry Same Lineup Tonight - 12 minutes ago
Comment by Kate in Abel to Yzerman from the entry Same Lineup Tonight - 21 minutes ago