SI.com 2003 NHL Playoffs 2003 NHL Playoffs


Marty Turco
Dallas Stars
5' 11"  185 lbs.
QUICK STATS
  Regular Post
Record 59-22-13 --
GAA 1.85 --
SV% .928 --
Shutouts 12 --


Mental Toughness
Turco proved this season that he was ready to take over as an NHL starter. His grooming as a backup certainly paid off. He felt all along that he was ready this year -- part of the progression -- as he wasn't thrust into a role he did not understand.

Glove Hand
Turco is a good, dependable catcher of the puck. Earlier in his career, he said he was always looking to make the flashy save. Now, it is just the opposite as he focuses on making the solid play.

Stick
Turco is fabulous with his stick in all situations, and is second only to Martin Brodeur in puck-handling prowess.

Pads
He is fundamentally sound, so his feet are situated and his setup is done early. Turco has worked hard on early positioning and it has paid off. Add his quick feet to the equation and you have a textbook example of how to get maximum use of the goal pads to make saves and control rebounds.

Style
Turco has the best footwork in the game right now. His early setup, patience and athletic ability combine in making him adept at both first saves and stops in rebound and recovery situations.

Intangible
He knows how to win and is consistent. Eclipsing Tony Esposito's all-time goals-against average mark of 1.77 with his own 1.72 GAA this season can't hurt his confidence, either.

Stanley Cup
None.

 


 
CNNSI