Goalie Takeaways of Spittin Chiclets talk with Joey Daccord

NHL level ability

Positioning has always been something important for goaltenders. More so nowadays. Daccord mentioned that it is a characteristic you should have at the NHL level. With size, it’s an equation for success. 

You can see how fast the NHL is. Positioning narrows hockey IQ, quickness of movement and reactions. Good positioning proves you have a good understanding of the game. 

Hellebuyck is another goalie in the NHL who focuses a lot on positioning. He quoted that staying calm and being ahead of the play made him trust how he was moving. 

Ultimately, Hellebuyck is one of the goaltenders known for his positioning, and as he knows, gives him the best chance to make saves in all parts of the crease. 

Joey Daccord against Matthews

Goaltending specific formula

There is no fixed recipe for becoming a goaltender. According to Daccord, a goaltender's body type should not limit them from pursuing the position. Anyone can become a goalie, regardless of their body type. While having a larger size can be an advantage, it is not essential. 

Goaltenders can still excel by finding ways to be difficult to beat. Some goaltenders may be athletic off the ice but seem robotic on the ice, while others may not be as athletic but can surprise everyone with their saves. Athleticism is a crucial trait that always translates well on the ice. 

The more you train in the gym (improving aerobic/anaerobic capacity, strength, and flexibility), the better equipped you will be to handle the demands of the position. 

By conditioning yourself and preparing your body, you can enhance your endurance and reduce the chances of getting injured while playing. The game will feel less challenging and more enjoyable despite your size. 

How to change perspective

Joey Daccord spent multiple summers coaching in Massachusetts at his father's goalie camp. His dad, Briand Daccord, was also a former goalie who played in the Swiss pro leagues and held multiple roles in the NHL. 

During these summer camps, Joey would shoot on the goalies and found that he learned much more about the game when he was shooting rather than when he was doing drills. Watching young goalies react to his deceptions allowed him to see the game from a player's point of view. 

Players have an analytical process to accommodate their deceptions based on what they see from the goalie. Coaching in Massachusetts helped Joey to rationalize scoring opportunities, which he applied to his performance with the Kraken in the 2023-2024 season. 

Gaining insights from a different perspective is a practical way to better understand goaltending mastery. Coaching is a great way to learn.