Joe Pelletier’s got an intriguing read over at Greatest Hockey Legends about some of the greatest penalty-killing experts in NHL history, including a run-down of the top all-time shorthanded goal-scorers. (It looks like Wayne Gretzky has a lock on that record with 73 goals, especially since his closest active competition is Sergei Fedorov with 36.) […]

Originally published in Prospects Hockey in 2004 By Lucas Aykroyd When a playoff game goes into overtime, you often hear dramatic rock songs like Europe’s “The Final Countdown” or Survivor’s “Eye Of The Tiger” blasting through the hockey arena. But that’s to set the mood for fans. Coaches can’t let themselves get swept up in […]

Originally published in Prospects Hockey in 2004 By Lucas Aykroyd For today’s hockey coach, neglecting to use video analysis effectively would be about as dumb as trying to go 12 rounds with Muhammad Ali in his prime–while blindfolded. You just can’t overlook a tool like this when every other coach is taking advantage. Right into […]

Originally published in Rinkside in 2004 By Lucas Aykroyd It’s often called “the most exciting play in hockey,” but a penalty shot is also one of the most nerve-wracking for shooters and goalies. In the normal course of a game, there are dozens of possibilities developing on the ice, and there’s a give-and-take to the […]

Originally published in Prospects Hockey in 2005 By Lucas Aykroyd In most areas of life, wasting time is not a virtue. If it’s your job to take out the garbage, wash the car, or finish a report, you’re just supposed to get on with it. However, in terms of succeeding while shorthanded, hockey coaches elevate […]

Originally published in Prospects Hockey in 2003 By Lucas Aykroyd Let’s face it. When your hockey team is fighting to maintain a 3-2 lead late in the third period, it’s tough on everyone’s bodies. Players block stinging slapshots and grind it out along the boards. Coaches feel their heart rate increase as they pace and […]

Originally published in Prospects Hockey in 2003 By Lucas Aykroyd How do you feel when your bank tells you that your latest cheque bounced or that you’ve racked up a ton of service charges? A good hockey coach is just as annoyed when his team unnecessarily gives up an odd-man rush. At the same time, […]

Originally published in Prospects Hockey in 2002 By Lucas Aykroyd For a hockey coach, a well-executed power play can be a thing of beauty if you’re using offensive talents like Scottie Upshall of the Kamloops Blazers or Steve Eminger of the Kitchener Rangers. If not, you might need a more down-and-dirty strategy. Regardless of their […]