Lehner’s 1st period scouting report:
Lehner’s first save - 2:36 into the game - was not good sign. A save nonetheless, but it was a terrible shooting angle on a 22 foot shot by Jackman – who Lehner should have known would shoot. Lehner went paddle-down which I absolutely hate. It is a desperation technique and there was no reason for Lehner to be worried on that shot. Be in position, have your angle and trust your base.
From there, the next shots came in a flurry while shorthanded. With all that traffic in front, Lehner was square, as high in his crease as he could be and active with his feet. It was as strong a sequence as I have seen this season from any goalie. That two-pad stack that he made was remarkable. To be able to get his left and do that from his starting position – butterfly - with his legs and core, was astounding. Lehner now looked focused and seemed to be locating the puck with ease. That series of saves meant that he was confident and carrying that assuredness throughout the game would be something I would be watching going forward.
The goal Lehner allowed was tough one. He over-committed a little bit, but you can see him quickly adjust and try to get back into the middle of the net and square. The shot came before Lehner could completely return to position and therefore he had to reach with his blocker. When this happened, the pushing foot came off the ice and he couldn’t complete his return to the proper angle. The original shot was remarkably stopped – thanks to his ability to see the puck so well thus far in the game. The rebound – off a body – was not stoppable because of the original over-commit and pushing foot slip.
From there on out, Lehner was back to anticipating well, tracking pucks, being in position and mentally sharp in all its aspects. He made so many key saves.
A great period overall from Lehner; he was the first star without question.
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