End The Curse wrote:
Wow...my thoughts are mixed. On one hand I'm totally in favor of reducing the size and bulk of the goalie equipment to improve the quality and integrity of the game. On the other hand, I'm not sure I like the idea measuring players and assigning them pads...I mean, I wouldn't want the league assigning helmets, skates, sticks and shoulder pads based on player size because I think each player should have room for their own preferences within reason.
Why not just provide goaltender equipment in a few sizes that cannot be modified? If they choose a size that goes beyond a certain height on their body than fine them for a uniform violation like they do in the NFL if your socks are too low or your jersey is untucked.
All the NHL is measuring for is the maximum height.
A goalie can get pads made to his specs as long as they don't pass that maximum point based on their size.
I think this is the way that they should have gone from the get go so that a goalie like Lundqvist can't rock the 33"+5" or 34"+4" pads that he has.
My guess is that the new rule will reduce Lundy's max pad height to around 36". And the +2" is what I think should be the max as that gives the goalie enough thigh rise to be protective without getting into the range where the added thigh rise is just there for closing the five hole.
But, if you are a goalie that doesn't want the added thigh rise and your max height is say 36", you could still get a 33"+1" or a straight 35" or whatever floats your boat.
The NHL won't make a goalie get a pad that is the max height.
It makes sense to me for a 6'4' goalie to have a taller pad max than a 5'11" goalie.
Login
Register
FAQ
Search
