Sidney Crosby heading up ice with speed.
It is said that imitation is the greatest form of flattery. As hockey players, we have the best platform to imitate and improve our game, NHL hockey players. We all have our favorite NHL players that we look up to and try to emulate. Emulating and imitating our favorite and sometimes not our favorite NHL player is an excellent learning tool. As a scout, I am always looking at player’s individual skills, team skills, and play without the puck. As a hockey player, we should watch the NHL stars with the same objective to improve our game. All players should be students of the game and learn not only from the NHL stars, but also from out teammates and opponents. Students of the game should be able to pick up skills and tendencies from their favorite NHL player’s game that can transfer over into their own game. Look for how the NHL stars keep their feet moving and present themselves for a pass. Watch their hand placement when they are turning and shooting and watch how they keep their head up and on a swivel at all times. Watch how they use their angles to check and change possession of the puck. Watch their stick placement and how they back check. Watch how the goalies square up to the shooter and make their save selections.
Analyze and learn from the game. Watch how your NHL player plays away from puck and supports the puck. Watch how he looks over his shoulder and picks up the open man and stays between his open man and the puck. Watch how they respond to mistakes and adversity and how they treat their teammates, coaches, and referees. Watch to see if their body language changes whether they are winning or losing.
We all can learn from each other and we can especially learn from the best players in the game. Imitate these player’s skills and tendencies and you will soon find your game improving.