My opinion on why it's impossible to predict a goalie prospect's future success

[lwvs84]

One of the tough things to predict is how mentally tough a goalie is. Unlike every other position, a goalie can single handedly lose you the game. If a young goalie has a few bad games, it could snowball if he's mentally fragile. Depending on the team, a goalie's weaknesses could be exploited or covered up. If a goalie gives up a lot of rebounds, a strong defensive team can help clear the puck and keep opposing players away from the front of the net. Conversely, if a goalie loses focus if he doesn't see a ton of shots, he may do better starting behind a weaker defensive team than other goalies would (I know both are probably bad examples, but it's been a long day and I think my point is made?).

Goalies that are big and athletic can cover up for so many mistakes just by covering up so much of the net and being able to get into a position where their big frame is in the way. Who was the last high end, sub 6 foot goalie? Quick look at some of the top starters this year, everyone is 6'2'' or taller.

 

[King'sPawn]

A lot of goaltender development is mental and focus related. Makes it hard to predict those qualities long term.

 

[Billy Kvcmu]

Mentality also plays a big role
But it’s also the one part that’s almost impossible to evaluate or scout

 

[Newsworthy]

A goalies value is much lower than other positions so it doesn't make sense to draft them too high anymore.
So no earlier than late first rd unless that player dominates ( really stands out among the rest).
I think the days of drafting a goalie top ten (lottery pick) are gone.

 

[Kelly]

Is there any data of a goalies success rate (GP/W) for each round in the draft?

Kinda curious to see it, and compare it to the players.

 

[Hi ImHFNYR]

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Your argument was about drafting centers, not about being a disgrace to organized sports and tanking for half a decade so you luck into two of the top players in the history of the game in Malkin and Crosby. I don't even necessarily disagree with the idea of drafting centers. But this picture is a dishonest way to defend that argument