Alex Tuch of Wild scores sick shootout goal; celebration was sicker (Video)
Alex Tuch is a 19-year-old winger who fancies himself as “a big, strong power forward with a heavy shot, very smart instincts.”
One of the best tests for hockey instincts is the shootout, where logic and planning frequently take a backseat to reflex and improvisation. Tuch took part in one at Minnesota Wild rookie development camp on Sunday, and the former Boston College standout made amazing happen.
The goalie attempted a poke check and then, this being a scrimmage, laid his stick on the ice to create an obstacle course for Tuch. He dangled around the stick and then held the puck … and held it … and held it … and actually skated past the goal line as he finally released it blocker side for a sick goal.
How does one celebrate such an achievement? With the subtlety of a swashbuckler apparently. Tuch holstered his stick like a swordsman and then went into a full strut in front of the benches. Which was glorious.
Tuch was taken No. 18 overall in the 2014 NHL Draft by the Wild, and posted 28 points in 37 games for BC last season as a freshman. Did he ever consider not returning for his sophomore season?
“Not really,” he told the Star Tribune. “I think I have some unfinished business, especially with the Beanpot (an annual tournament held in Boston with Boston College, Boston University, Harvard and Northeastern, won by Boston University last February) and the national tournament. Although I led the team in scoring, I feel I could have produced a lot more.”
He said he sees himself as a Charlie Coyle-like player. If Charlie Coyle celebrated shootout goals like Mick Jagger, we imagine.
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