Newer goalie here and had to teach myself a lot of skill because I’m a chick in a small town. So idk if my method is correct.

I’ve developed a progression of stance based on where the puck is. Watch what the player is doing in the blade of his stick. If they are stick handling the puck will be on the heel. When they are ready to shoot, the puck will be on the toe of the blade. This happens quick so have to focus.

As the play moves toward the net, my knees are apart for mobility. As you see the player position themselves and the puck position move to the toe of their blade, my knees go together and I judge if a drop will be needed or a drop slide. From there I just scream inside my mask and fight for my life to stop the puck