Mastering the Crease: A Guide to NHL 22 Goalie Controls

In NHL 22, the role of the goaltender is pivotal, requiring precise control and strategic decision-making to keep the opposing team at bay. Understanding and mastering the goalie controls is essential for any virtual netminder looking to make crucial saves and secure victories for their team. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the world of NHL 22 goalie controls, providing insights and tips to help you become a formidable force between the pipes.

**1. Basic Goaltending Controls:

• Familiarize yourself with the basic controls that govern your goalie's movements. Use the left analog stick to navigate within the crease, and the right analog stick to control your goalie's glove and blocker. Getting comfortable with these fundamental movements lays the foundation for more advanced goalie plays.

**2. Butterfly and Stand-Up Positioning:

• The butterfly position is a staple for goaltenders in NHL 22. To execute it, pull both analog sticks downward. This widens your goalie's stance, making it easier to cover the lower part of the net. Conversely, releasing the analog sticks returns your goalie to the stand-up position. Mastering when to switch between these positions is crucial for effective goaltending.

**3. Controlling Rebounds:

• One of the keys to goaltending success is managing rebounds effectively. After making a save, use the right analog stick to direct the rebound away from the danger zone. Controlling rebounds limits the opposing team's second-chance opportunities and gives your defenders more time to clear the puck.

**4. Post Integration and Hugging the Post:

• Utilize the post integration feature by holding the left trigger (LT/L2) to ensure your goalie hugs the post. This is particularly effective during wraparound attempts or when facing sharp-angle shots. Proper post integration reduces the chances of the puck sneaking past your goalie along the goal line.

**5. Precision Movement:

• Precision movement is achieved by holding the Precision Control button (typically LB/L1). This allows you to make subtle adjustments to your goalie's positioning for increased accuracy. Use precision movement to fine-tune your net coverage and respond to the puck's trajectory with precision.

**6. Diving Saves:

• When facing breakaways or one-timers, the diving save becomes a valuable tool. Initiate a diving save by pressing the dive button (typically X/Square). Timing is crucial here; a well-timed dive can thwart a high-quality scoring chance, while mistimed dives may leave the net vulnerable.

**7. Stick and Glove Control:

• Refine your stick and glove control using the right analog stick. Position your stick to intercept shots and direct rebounds away from the net. Similarly, use the glove control to snag incoming shots and deny the opposition's scoring attempts.

**8. Dealing with Screens and Deflections:

• Screened shots and deflections pose unique challenges for goaltenders. Anticipate screens by adjusting your positioning to see around screens, and be ready to make reactionary saves. When facing deflections, tracking the puck and adjusting your stance can improve your chances of making the save.

**9. Reading Opponents' Moves:

• Goalie controls extend beyond physical movements; they include reading the opponents' plays. Pay attention to the opposing players' tendencies, shooting styles, and favorite scoring areas. This awareness allows you to anticipate their moves and position yourself accordingly.

**10. Practice in Goalie-Specific Drills:

• To sharpen your skills, engage in goalie-specific drills available in NHL 22. These drills simulate various in-game scenarios, providing a dynamic practice environment to enhance your reflexes, positioning, and overall goaltending proficiency.

Conclusion: Dominating the Crease in NHL 22

In conclusion, mastering the NHL 22 goalie controls is a journey that involves understanding the basics, refining your techniques, and adapting to the dynamic flow of the game. By incorporating these tips into your goaltending strategy, you can become a stalwart guardian of the net, making crucial saves that propel your team to victory.

So, lace up your virtual goalie pads, step into the crease, and let the saves begin in NHL 22!