Kukla's Korner Hockey
Ryan Miller’s Game
by Paul on 10/16/14 at 06:21 AM ET
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from Kevin Woodley at NHL.com,
"I do start in the crease a lot more than I think people give me credit for," Miller said. "I have been a pretty aggressive skating goaltender, but over the years I think it has quieted down. I am just trying to change with the times and build a game that is going to work for the current NHL, so I know that I have to be available to make some saves in back-side situations. I understand that."
An ability to get across the ice on back-door chances, rebounds and loose pucks is only one part of the trend toward deeper positioning that is creeping into the NHL. The other benefits include shorter, therefore quicker, movements from one save position to the next, reducing the holes goalies open as they move laterally.
It has become a game of efficiency and percentages. Miller believes to be at his best, there needs to be more.
It's becoming a bit of a lost art, but Miller wants to dictate to opposing shooters, maybe even bait them a bit. He prefers to play with some personality.
"I don't think I am the kind of guy who can sit back. I still need to be myself," the 34-year-old said. "When I am flowing with the game and making guys change their mind on a play rather than waiting on it, I feel like I am at a high point of my game."
Filed in: NHL Teams, Vancouver Canucks, | KK Hockey | Permalink
Tags: ryan+miller
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