The NHL's best netminders by strengths and style

	Martin Brodeur's proficiency with the stick was so formidable, the NHL moved to limit it. Richard Schultz/WireImage
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Even though they will be somewhat lost in the shuffle of the SuperSkills Competition while the greater glory goes to the player with the hardest slap shot or swiftest skates, it doesn't mean that netminders lack aura. For proof, I submit the NHL's top puck-stoppers in 10 categories. Allan Muir has rated the skaters in a similar wide array.

The Master

Best overall: Martin Brodeur, Devils

Brodeur is the best on so many levels. He is consistent, durable and team-oriented. He is also an anachronism in a game in which almost everyone has adopted the full butterfly method. Brodeur remains a stay-on-your-skates-first 'tender, meaning he is athletic in his approach and execution, despite nearing the age of 35.

An unparalleled puck handler -- which partly explains why he remains true to a more stand-up style -- Brodeur's ability to diffuse a team's forechecking effort forced the NHL to adopt rules limiting where goalies can flag down and handle pucks. When they change the rules because you are too proficient, that's real impact.

Despite the league regulating and thus inhibiting one of his best attributes, Brodeur is still enjoying one of his best seasons. He's truly one for the ages -- this or any other.

The Gunslinger

Best in the age of shootouts: Henrik Lundqvist, Rangers

The Swedish star challenges aggressively and has an excellent glove. His early set-up position coupled with strong backward skating means he is nearly impossible to beat on a shot while at the same time remaining very adept at shutting down the deke.

Honorable mention: Ryan Miller, Sabres

The Scrambler

Best ad-lib artist: Dominik Hasek, Red Wings

The Dominator's early positioning is textbook, yet he changed goaltending conventions forever with his creativity on second shots. Everything from the cartwheel save to the reverse rollover to covering the puck by dropping the goal stick and using the palm of the blocker was invented by Hasek. And he is still going strong at 41.

Honorable mention: Vesa Toskala, Sharks

The Technician

Best footwork and crease coverage: Cristobal Huet, Canadiens

Huet has had an astonishing run of consistent play since joining the Habs last March. Much of that has to do with his outstanding pivot-push technique in the crease. His leg-recovery mechanics are flawless and a point of emphasis in working with former NHL netminder/Canadiens assistant Rollie Melanson. Huet's precision in the paint means he gets to pucks quickly and is perfectly poised for rebound attempts.

Honorable mention: Miikka Kiprusoff, Flames

The Acrobat

Best athletic approach to the position: Marty Turco, Stars

Turco often forsakes early set-up technique and freelances instead. His willingness to play the situation rather than percentages makes him exciting to watch. It isn't as if Turco's daring hinders his consistency. He is always among the league leaders in appearances and effectiveness. He just does it with flair.

Honorable mention: Curtis Joseph, Coyotes