Jim’s Intro to Breakaway Saves
Hi folks, Jim here, the only commentator who once suggested on air that “breakaway saves” were special holiday deals from travel agents.
What is a breakaway save?
A breakaway save happens when a goalie faces a lone attacker skating in uncontested, forcing a one-on-one showdown. It’s a test of positioning, patience, and mental control. The shooter has time to pick a move, and the goalie has to read, react, and execute under pressure.
How does it work?
Breakaway saves depend on anticipation, positioning, and controlled movement:
- Start with Good Depth: Challenge at the top of the crease to cut down angles.
- Match Speed: Retreat in sync with the puck carrier’s pace to stay square.
- Read the Hands: Watch the shooter’s stick blade and hands for cues.
- Stay Patient: Don’t commit too early to avoid getting deked.
- React Decisively: Once the shooter makes their move, explode into the save, whether it’s a butterfly drop, glove snatch, or pad extension.
- Recover for Rebounds: Be ready if the first save doesn’t end the play.
How do you make good decisions with it?
- Assess the Shooter Quickly: Know if they’re likely to deke, shoot early, or go five-hole.
- Hold Your Ground: Over-sliding or lunging gives shooters easy openings.
- Use Controlled Retreat: Keep your edges active so you can push in any direction.
- Time Your Drop: Dropping too soon opens up the top; too late gives them the bottom.
- Focus on the Puck, Not Fakes: Good shooters will try to bait reactions.
How do you master it?
Mastering breakaway saves takes focused drills, mental composure, and reading ability. Goalies practice controlled retreats, reaction timing, and handling a variety of dekes and quick releases. Confidence is key. Hesitation is costly.
What does it look like when done right?
A clean breakaway save looks smooth and composed. The goalie tracks the puck, waits out the shooter, makes a sharp save, and either freezes the puck or directs it safely aside while the crowd erupts.
Commentator’s Corner
Jim’s Take
A perfect breakaway save is like winning a staring contest with someone holding a slap shot. Blink first, and it’s over.
Parent Tip
Work on building confidence, not just technique. Breakaway saves are as much mental as they are physical.
Player Tip
Goalies, stay patient and trust your edges. Shooters, mix up your moves. Predictable breakaways make goalies look heroic.
A Final Thought
Breakaway saves are pressure cookers that define games. Master them, and you’ll turn nail-biting moments into momentum-shifting triumphs.
