He played for a Lawrence squad that, charitably, needed their goaltender to be a star every night because the team gave up a lot of shots.
“I loved it,†Robinson said. “It’s a big reason why I went to this school. I feel it got me a lot of attention because I could really help my team win big games.â€
A University of New Hampshire commit, Robinson grew up in the state watching the Wildcats. He also has a training relationship with goalie coach Mike Buckley, who worked with UNH and is now with the Pittsburgh Penguins – and think about how insanely good Matt Murray has been in the minors this year. Buckley also worked with Jonathan Quick when the Kings star was at UMass.
“I’ve worked with Mike for 10 years,†Robinson said. “I’ve always had a good connection with him. He’s my go-to guy for anything hockey.â€
Tracking the puck has become the latest revolution in goaltending thanks to Devan Dubnyk and his work with Lyle Mast and Steve Valiquette and Robinson has also bought in. The youngster noted that Buckley has incorporated such teachings in his own work for years.
“You want your nose to the glove and to watch the puck go into the glove,†Robinson said. “You focus in on the puck instead of just blocking it.â€
With his big frame and athleticism, Robinson can stump shooters in a lot of ways. He will likely play for the Boston Jr. Bruins in the U.S. Premier League next year, though his USHL rights were just picked up by Lincoln. Wherever he plays, he’ll be ready for the pressure. Draft eligible in 2015.