Best Hockey Saves Of All Time
Hockey is a sport that requires quick reflexes, lightning speed, and an unwavering focus. With so much action happening on the ice at any given moment, it's no surprise that sometimes the most jaw-dropping moments in the game come from the incredible saves made by goaltenders. From sprawling dives to lightning-fast glove saves, these are the best hockey saves of all time.
The Stack-Pad Save
One iconic save that has become synonymous with the sport of hockey is the stack-pad save. This move involves the goaltender stacking their pads on top of each other to make a save, and it's a tactic that requires incredible athleticism and timing. One of the most famous examples of this save was made by Pittsburgh Penguins' goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury during the 2008 Stanley Cup Finals.
The Flamingo Save
The flamingo save is another impressive move that requires incredible balance and finesse. This save involves the goaltender lifting one leg up in the air like a flamingo, while keeping the other leg firmly planted on the ice. This tactic allows the goaltender to make a save with their raised leg, and it's a move that has been utilized by some of the greatest goaltenders in history.
The Scorpion Save
The scorpion save is a move that requires incredible flexibility and reflexes. This save involves the goaltender kicking their legs up and over their head like a scorpion, in order to make a save behind their back. This is an incredibly difficult move to execute, but when done correctly it can be one of the most impressive saves in the game.
The Windmill Save
The windmill save is one of the most iconic and impressive saves in the game of hockey. This move involves the goaltender making a quick glove save and then whipping their arm around in a circular motion, as if they were operating a windmill. This move requires incredible hand-eye coordination and timing, and it's a move that has been used to make some truly incredible saves over the years.
The Split Save
The split save is another move that requires incredible flexibility and athleticism. This move involves the goaltender dropping down into a full split in order to make a save with their legs. This move is often used to make saves on breakaways and other high-pressure situations, and it requires incredible strength and control to pull off successfully.
The Butterfly Save
The butterfly save is a move that has become ubiquitous in the game of hockey. This move involves the goaltender dropping down onto their knees with their legs spread wide apart, in order to create a "butterfly" shape with their pads. This move is incredibly effective at stopping low shots, but it requires a lot of practice and training to execute correctly.
The Desperation Save
Finally, sometimes the most impressive saves in hockey come from pure desperation. Whether it's diving across the crease to make a save or making a save while completely out of position, these moments are what make the game of hockey so thrilling to watch. Some of the greatest saves in hockey history have come from sheer grit and determination, and they serve as a reminder of just how incredible this sport can be.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best hockey saves of all time are a testament to the incredible skill and talent of the goaltenders who have played the game over the years. From the stack-pad save to the desperation dive, these moments are what make hockey such an exciting and thrilling sport to watch. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual spectator, it's impossible not to be impressed by the incredible saves made by these incredible athletes.
