In the fast-paced world of ice hockey, goaltending is as much about positioning and strategy as it is about reflexes and athleticism. One of the most crucial aspects of a goaltender’s positioning is depth management—the ability to control how far out from the crease a goalie plays in relation to the puck. For smaller goaltenders, effective depth management is essential for maximizing coverage, cutting down angles, and compensating for any size disadvantages against larger shooters. Personally, I continuously watch and analyze Jusse Saros and Jonathan Quick’s selections of their depth used in any and all situations.
Understanding Depth Management
Depth management refers to a goaltender’s ability to adjust their positioning relative to the puck’s location on the ice. Generally, goalies employ three depth positions:
Aggressive Depth(Jusse Saros) – Playing further out at the top of or beyond the crease to challenge the shooter and cut down angles. This is most effective when the play is predictable and defensive support is strong.
Neutral Depth(Igor Shesterkin) – Holding a mid-crease position, which allows for better lateral movement and a balanced ability to react to both shots and passes.
Conservative Depth(Connor Hellebuyck) – Staying deeper in the crease to prepare for cross-ice passes, screens, or lateral plays that demand quick post-to-post movements.
Why Depth Management Matters for Smaller Goalies
For smaller goaltenders, effective depth management is a game-changer. Unlike taller goaltenders who naturally take up more net space, smaller goalies must rely on technique and positioning to maximize their coverage. Here’s why depth management is particularly critical for goalies under six feet tall:
Cutting Down Angles: By stepping out further in aggressive depth, a smaller goalie can shrink the open space that shooters see, forcing them into more difficult shots.
Maximizing Reaction Time: Maintaining proper depth ensures a goaltender is close enough to react effectively but not so aggressive that they struggle to recover on second-chance opportunities.
Enhancing Mobility: Staying in an optimal depth position allows smaller goalies to transition smoothly between angles, avoiding situations where they are caught out of position due to over-committing.
Improved Save Selection: A well-managed depth approach allows a goalie to read the play better and choose the appropriate save technique, whether it be a butterfly, paddle-down, or a desperation save.
The Balance Between Aggression and Control
Smaller goalies must strike a balance between challenging shooters and maintaining the ability to move laterally. Over-aggression can leave a goalie vulnerable to dekes and lateral passes, while playing too deep can expose upper-net vulnerabilities. The key is to recognize game situations, read the play effectively, and adjust depth accordingly.
By mastering depth management, smaller goaltenders can play bigger than their size, maximizing their strengths and becoming a formidable last line of defense. With the right training and awareness, any goaltender—regardless of stature—can dominate the crease.
