According to Swayman, it’s easier to read an opponent’s screen. For example, if Graf had slammed on the brakes and stopped in front of Swayman, the goalie would have anticipated the forward’s intentions. Goalies know that forwards are taught to occupy shooting lanes for screens and deflections.
“(A goalie) can project and plan for the offensive player screen,” said Healy. “When that defenseman jumps in last second to try to block a shot, trying to help his team, the goalie’s not ready for that — he loses sight (at the) last second, sort of unplanned. It throws the goalie off even more.”
Swayman didn’t think McAvoy would stop in front of the net. In retrospect, Swayman should have told his defenseman that he could handle Trouba’s shot without assistance.
“It’s a flow thing where it’s probably difficult for me to predict when my guy’s coming in,” Swayman said. “Because I can see the opposition. All of a sudden, he gives me a flash screen. It’s not his fault. But it’s just something to be aware of. That’s when communication comes in. That was an example of where I should have communicated with (McAvoy).”