Mathew Barzal claps back: Why won't he just shoot in NHL games
New York Islanders forward Mathew Barzal is tired of hearing it, but he gets it. The moment he has the puck, thousands of
NHL
fans erupt with the same chant: 'Shoot!' It's become as common at UBS Arena as goal horns and organ music.
But according to Barzal, scoring goals in the National Hockey League (NHL) isn't that simple.
Every Mat Barzal 2023-24 Regular Season Goal (ALL 23 GOALS) | NHL Highlights
New York Islanders' Mathew Barzal gets candid about split-second decisions
Speaking on The ForePlay Pod, Barzal addressed the 'shoot' crowd head-on. Known for his dazzling edge work, slick hands, and patient playmaking, Barzal has often been criticized for not firing the puck more.
Mat Barzal's Top 10 Career Highlights
Barzal, ever the technician on the ice, explained that hockey isn't a video game. Decision-making happens in milliseconds, not minutes.
'People think it's just skate and rip,' he hinted, 'but the angles, the pressure, and the goalie in front of you make it a chess match, not checkers.'
Islanders fans have long clamored for their star center to shoot more, and with good reason. When Barzal does fire the puck, good things tend to happen. But from his perspective, passing often opens up better scoring lanes, especially in a league where goaltenders like Andrei Vasilevskiy cover nearly every inch of the net.
Ahead of 2024-25 NHL season, Barzal hints at more aggressive shooting role
Looking ahead, Islanders fans can expect a more assertive version of Barzal. With the franchise in need of scoring depth and leadership, the 27-year-old playmaker may be entering a new chapter in his career one that features a few more goals and, perhaps, a few fewer 'shoot!' chants echoing from the stands.
Barzal edges out McDavid for Fastest Skater crown
FAQs
Why doesn't Mathew Barzal shoot more in NHL games?
He prioritizes playmaking and believes passing. Often leads to better scoring chances.
Did Barzal improve his shooting last season?
Yes, he recorded a career-high 23 goals and 240 shots in 2023-24.
Will he shoot more in 2024-25?
Possibly, especially with Bo Horvat's role uncertain on his wing.
Who are Barzal's hockey idols?
Patrick Kane, Sidney Crosby, Pavel Datsyuk, and Claude Giroux.
Yet in the 2023-24 NHL season, he quietly shattered expectations, posting a career-high 23 goals and a whopping 240 shots on goal 61 more than his previous record.
Also Read:
Acquitted NHL player signs overseas: New deal sparks hope for Carter Hart, Michael McLeod, Dillon Dubé, Cal Foote, and Alex Formenton
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Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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