3 Nathan Mackinnon Standards

That's What the Dogg Does

Author

Mason Hackel
February 06, 2024

Hey Hockey Hacks Community

This week, we released our first video on Nathan Mackinnon’s Standards. And in case you missed it, you can find it here.

The man who goes by the name "Nate Dogg" is tearing up the NHL this year, competing for the most points and often single-handedly carrying his Avalanche team.

Players like MacKinnon set the bar for everyone else, and here are three standards that the Dogg himself excels at:

  1. Speed Mastery: Nate skates the most 20+mph bursts of anyone. It's not about being the absolute fastest; it's about being the fastest the MOST out of everyone.

  2. Shot Precision: Any shot he takes is 80mph or more. Quick release or loaded one-timer, every shot hits the 80mph standard.

  3. Deceptive Cadence: Deception is his game, and it comes from maintaining a high cadence in every movement. Form and cadence together are what set him apart.

Now, here are some drills to help you reach those standards:

  • Crossunder with a Gallop: Bias your crosses to your outside edge, creating a "gallop" effect. Focus on matching Mackinnon's form points at 150-180 beats per minute.

  • Corkscrew - Shot: Transition any mechanic you do to a
    Corkscrew - Shot. It could be a Crossunder - soft drag, and then immediately after, perform a Corkscrew and take your Shot.

  • Stutter - Anchor: Widen your stance, maintaining speed and adding deception to your game. Perform this drill at 180 beats per minute or more.

Are these the only things to master to get to Nathan MacKinnon’s standards? Certainly not. These are just three of his standards, and there's much more to explore. Remember, becoming the best isn't about doing more things; it's about getting really good at a small amount of things.

If you're looking for personalized programming to reach the MacKinnon Standards, book a free consultation with me here. Alternatively, check out our Hockey Hacks System programs here to equip yourself with the tools to reach the ability standards of the best players, like Nate MacKinnon.

Yours in Hockey Hacks,
Mason