The Importance of The Fourth Line and The Backup

During the end of the season and the playoffs, all the attention is focused on the NHL’s star players, and for good reason. How well they perform could determine if a team makes a playoff spot, or if a team advances through multiple playoff rounds. But, during this time, two things are often overlooked, and surprisingly, they are as important as the star players. Those two things are the fourth line and the backup goalie. The fourth line is stereotypically referred to as the “goon” line, however, that statement is completely false. The fourth line is used to give a team energy through physicality, speed, and a high-octane forecheck. All 3 members of the fourth line are not just there to give the star players a rest, they aim to play a solid 200 foot game and showcase their team’s depth of talented players. Take the Maple Leafs this year, for example. In their playoff push this year, their fourth line plays physical, injects energy into the Leafs, and they have the ability to put pucks in the net. Another position that is overlooked is the backup goaltender. Having a solid backup goalie does wonders for a team hoping for the playoffs. A solid backup provides stability, as the team knows that they have an excellent chance to win every game, no matter who is in net. A solid backup also instills confidence in a team. When the starting goalie needs a rest, or is injured, a team can count on their backup to provide solid wins for a game or two. The games may not seem like a lot, but to a team fighting tooth and nail for a playoff spot, every point counts. It is historically proven that having a good fourth line, and a good backup in addition to star players produces deep playoff runs and championships. If a team produces these two things, they will not only showcase their depth, but they will be on everyone’s radar come playoff time.