Paul Stewart: Missing the Net

I also thing they should change the body armor goalie pad sized shin pads for skaters as well. That would definitely decrease blocked shots.

I also thing they should change the body armor goalie pad sized shin pads for skaters as well. That would definitely decrease blocked shots.
- MBFlyerfan

I don't that is as much an issue anymore. It's not like there are any Craig Ludwigs skating around these days.

Goalies during my formative years:

Gump Worsley 5.7 - 180
Glenn Hall 5.11 -180
Terry Sawchuck 5.11 - 195
Jacque Plante 6.0 - 175
Rogie Vachon 5.7 - 170
Johnny Bower 5.11 - 189
Ed Giacomin 5.11 - 180

With the butterfly style, it's nearly impossible to score on the ice other than the 5 hole. I'd be in favor of making the nets slightly bigger to correct for the larger size goalies. Some modern net minders are a full foot taller than those a few generations ago.

And because shooters are all shooting high to pick the top corners, (the only net area exposed when down in the butterfly), I'd like to see the glass behind the nets raised significantly to keep the puck in play.

I like the idea of making the net bigger, say 1 inch on either side. I'd also be in favor of reducing the size of goalie equipment.

It's no wonder more of the net is covered these days...goalies are bigger, yes, but look at the upper body padding -

With all the technology out there today, goalie pads should be able to be made to only protect the goalie, and nothing else. My guess is they could end up being considerably smaller.

Pads should not stop goals, only talent.

But I'm thinking the guys at the top of the all-time scoring list are smiling these days...