Hockey sense can be something that’s pretty hard to evaluate as it’s not really measurable via a metric but it’s by far the most important aspect of a player IMO.
But yes, some guys process the game faster than others and some slower than others. In the grand scheme of all hockey players, I’m sure Jecho’s processing and understanding of the game is in the top few percent of the world. But based on the average NHL player, it’s pretty notably below average IMO. It’s not just processing but where to go, seeing plays develop, seeing various options available, seeing and then taking advantage of a miscue from an opponent, etc. To me, Jecho gets lost on the ice a lot and isn’t very effective in actually utilizing his skills.
Some think you either have it or you don’t but I disagree. I thing a good chunk of it is innate but I think the work of Adam Oates, Daryl Belfry and others has shown that it’s at least somewhat teachable.
I’ve always wondered if the NHL does any sort of cognitive test like the NFL does with the Wonderlic. I’ve never heard of them doing one though. That natural level of intelligence and processing speed is what likely can’t really be improved upon. But there’s different types of intelligence. I’ve met people that are complete morons at typical school subjects but geniuses when it comes to a specific sport.
But hockey is a game with a lot of improv, not set plays like football. But there’s still plenty of pre-established patterns and techniques to learn that will allow players to get open, be available for a pass, anticipate what the opposition is going to do and stop it etc. The understanding of that stuff can absolutely be learned and improved upon if a player puts in the work, has good coaching and/or seeks out specialized coaching.
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