NHL Roster Construction (Checklist & Ultimate Guide)

Let’s say you’re trying to build an NHL roster into the best team in the league.

What would you look for in each position and construct the overall roster?

Let’s take a look.

NHL Roster Construction Basics

NHL roster construction is a crucial aspect for any team aiming to win the Stanley Cup. The key components of building a successful NHL roster are as follows:

1. Core Players (Franchise Players): Every successful team needs a core group of elite players who can drive the team’s success. These are typically high-end forwards, defensemen, and a starting goaltender who are among the best at their positions in the league. These players are often in their prime years and are expected to lead the team both on and off the ice.
2. Depth Scoring: While having a strong core is essential, it’s also crucial to have depth scoring throughout the lineup. Teams need multiple lines that can contribute offensively, as well as a balanced attack that can score goals from various sources. This depth scoring takes pressure off the top lines and makes it harder for opposing teams to game plan against a team’s top players.
3. Defensive Depth: A strong defensive corps is vital for success in the NHL playoffs. Teams need a mix of defensemen who can play shutdown defense, move the puck effectively, and contribute offensively. Having depth on the back end allows teams to roll four lines consistently and maintain defensive pressure throughout games.
4. Goaltending: Goaltending is often the most critical position in the NHL, especially in the playoffs. Teams need a starting goaltender who can steal games and provide consistent, high-level performance. Additionally, having a capable backup goaltender is essential, as injuries and fatigue can often plague starters during the grueling playoff run.
5. Specialty Teams: Both the power play and penalty kill units can be difference-makers in the playoffs. Teams need to have skilled players who can capitalize on power play opportunities, as well as a dedicated group of penalty killers who can neutralize the opposition’s power play.
6. Physicality and Grit: The playoffs are a war of attrition, and teams need players who can withstand the physical grind of a long postseason run. Having a mix of players with size, strength, and grit can wear down opponents over the course of a series and provide a physical presence to complement the skill players.
7. Coaching and Leadership: While not directly part of the roster, coaching and leadership play a crucial role in building a successful team. A strong coaching staff that can effectively manage the roster, implement systems, and make adjustments during a series is invaluable. Additionally, having veteran leaders in the locker room who can keep the team focused and motivated is essential for navigating the ups and downs of the playoffs.

Building a well-rounded roster that addresses all of these key components is crucial for any team hoping to hoist the Stanley Cup at the end of the season.

Skills & Attributes Needed

From a skill and attribute perspective, all Stanley Cup champion teams tend to have certain types of players that are critical to their success.

Here are some of the key skill sets that championship-caliber teams typically possess:

1. Elite Scoring Talent: Championship teams almost always have at least one or two elite, game-breaking scorers (e.g., McDavid and Draisaitl) who can take over games and provide clutch scoring in the playoffs. These are the superstars who can create offense and make things happen when games are tight.
2. Two-Way Centers: Having a strong two-way center who can dominate at both ends of the ice is invaluable. These players can shut down the opposition’s top offensive threats, win key faceoffs, and also provide offensive production.
3. Skilled Puck-Moving Defensemen: Defensemen who can transition the puck effectively, lead the breakout, and contribute offensively from the back end are essential. Their ability to create offense from the blue line is a major asset.
4. Shutdown Defensemen: Teams need at least one, if not two, shutdown defensemen who can neutralize the opposition’s top scorers. These players excel in one-on-one battles, gap control, and defensive zone coverage.
5. Physical Presence: Championship teams tend to have a mix of players who can provide a physical presence, engage in board battles, and wear down opponents over the course of a series. Size and strength are valuable assets.
6. Reliable Goaltending: Perhaps the most crucial component, all Stanley Cup winners have had excellent goaltending. Whether it’s an elite starter or a tandem that can provide consistent, high-level performance, reliable goaltending is a must.
7. Strong Role Players: While stars are important, championship teams also have a supporting cast of strong role players who contribute in specific areas like penalty killing, forechecking, faceoffs, and energy/physicality.
8. Veteran Leadership: Experienced veterans who have been through the playoff grind and can provide locker room leadership and composure in high-pressure situations are invaluable assets.

While talent and skill are paramount, Stanley Cup champions also tend to possess intangibles like resilience, work ethic, and a team-first mentality.

Building a well-rounded roster with a mix of elite skill, two-way play, physical presence, reliable goaltending, and strong supporting pieces is typically the blueprint for teams aiming to hoist the Stanley Cup.

How an NHL GM Would Map Out a Roster

Forwards

• Line 1:
  • Center: Elite playmaker, vision, puck possession, two-way responsibility, leadership.
  • Winger 1: Pure goal scorer, lethal shot, release, offensive positioning.
  • Winger 2: Playmaking winger, complements center’s skills, high hockey IQ, puck creativity.
• Line 2:
  • Center: Strong two-way center, faceoff wins, reliable defensively, some secondary scoring.
  • Winger 1: Power forward, net-front presence, physicality, strong board work.
  • Winger 2: Speedy scorer, good on breakaways, stretches the defense, penalty kill contributor.
• Line 3:
  • Center: Defensive specialist, exceptional faceoffs, penalty kill ace, good in own zone.
  • Winger 1: Two-way winger, solid skater, reliable defensively, some offensive upside.
  • Winger 2: High-energy winger, relentless forechecking, puck retrieval, disruptive in all zones.
• Line 4
  • Center: Physical, gritty center, wins board battles, penalty kill.
  • Winger 1: Enforcer-type, brings toughness, protects teammates, physical presence.
  • Winger 2: Versatile, can play up and down the lineup, defensively responsible.

Defensemen

• Pairing 1:
  • Defenseman 1: Offensive D-man, powerplay quarterback, excellent skating and passing.
  • Defenseman 2: Stay-at-home, defensively focused, shot blocking, physicality.
• Pairing 2:
  • Defenseman 3: Two-way, mobile defenseman, balanced skillset, can play in all situations.
  • Defenseman 4: Reliable veteran, steady presence, good positional awareness, strong defensively.
• Pairing 3
  • Defenseman 5: Young, offensive-minded, potential for upside, high risk/reward.
  • Defenseman 6: Physical, shutdown defenseman, penalty kill specialist, clears the crease.

Goaltenders

• Starter: True #1 goalie, elite talent, capable of stealing games, mentally tough.
• Backup: Reliable backup, can handle a decent workload, experience preferable.

Additional Considerations

• Special Teams: Look for players specializing in power play and penalty kill roles.
• Chemistry: Prioritize players with good character that fit the team culture.
• Versatility: Value players who can adapt to different roles or positions as needed.
• Depth: Have a few extra players for injury replacements or to inject new energy.

Important Notes

• This is a template; every team will need slight adjustments based on their system and players available.
• Building the perfect roster takes time. Trades, drafts, and player development are crucial.
• Salary cap restrictions will be a constant challenge to navigate.

How do different team strategies affect roster construction?

• Offensive Rush: Emphasizes fast-paced attacks and quick transitions. Look for:
  • Explosive skaters at both forward and on the blue line.
  • Highly skilled forwards for creative rushes and odd-man chances.
  • Defensemen who can join the attack and contribute offensively.
• “Heavy” Forecheck: Focuses on aggressive puck pressure and grinding in the offensive zone. Look for:
  • Big, physical forwards who can win battles along the boards.
  • Relentless, high-energy players to wear down the opponent.
  • Mobile defensemen who can support the forecheck and pinch in.
• Trap/Defensive System: Emphasizes protecting the middle of the ice and limiting the opponent’s chances. Look for:
  • Strong stay-at-home defensemen with good reach and positioning.
  • Defensive-minded forwards committed to backchecking.
  • A goalie adept at handling the puck and limiting rebounds.
• “Puck Possession” Focus: Prioritizes puck control and creating chances by cycling the puck. Look for:
  • Playmaking forwards with excellent vision and passing skills.
  • Defensemen who can move the puck quickly and efficiently.
  • Players with a strong understanding of offensive zone positioning.

First Line Characteristics

When constructing the first line for an NHL team aiming to win the Stanley Cup, there are several key characteristics that are typically sought after:

1. Elite Scoring Ability: The first line is expected to provide the bulk of the team’s offense, so having players with elite goal-scoring and playmaking abilities is essential. These players need to have a combination of skill, hockey sense, and the ability to finish scoring chances consistently.
2. Speed and Skating Ability: In today’s NHL, speed is a crucial element for any successful line. First-line players need to have excellent skating abilities, allowing them to create separation from defenders, enter the offensive zone with speed, and transition quickly from defense to offense.
3. Compete Level and Work Ethic: While skill is important, first-line players also need to possess a high compete level and a relentless work ethic. They need to be willing to battle for loose pucks, drive to the net, and consistently outwork their opponents shift after shift.
4. Two-Way Ability: While offensive production is the primary responsibility, first-line players also need to be responsible in their own zone and contribute defensively. This two-way ability allows coaches to trust them in crucial defensive situations and helps prevent momentum-swinging goals against.
5. Chemistry and Compatibility: The first line needs to have a strong chemistry and compatibility among its members. Players need to complement each other’s styles, read off each other’s movements, and develop an intuitive understanding of where their linemates will be on the ice.
6. Leadership and Clutch Performance: First-line players are often the team’s most skilled and highest-paid players, so they need to lead by example and perform in clutch situations. They need to be able to elevate their game when it matters most and rise to the occasion in high-pressure situations.

Ideally, the first line would feature a combination of a skilled playmaking center, complemented by two wingers with a mix of goal-scoring prowess, speed, physicality, and defensive responsibility. Finding the right balance and chemistry among these top players is crucial for building a dominant first line capable of carrying a team deep into the playoffs.

Second Line Characteristics

The second line on an NHL team aiming to win the Stanley Cup plays a vital role in providing depth scoring and complementing the team’s top line.

Here’s what a coach and general manager typically look for in constructing a strong second line:

Skills and Characteristics

1. Scoring Depth: While not expected to match the elite production of the first line, the second line must still possess offensive skill and the ability to contribute consistently on the scoresheet.
2. Versatility: Players on the second line are often expected to play in various situations, including power play, penalty kill, and defensive zone faceoffs. Versatility and the ability to adapt to different roles are highly valued.
3. Defensive Responsibility: The second line should be responsible in their own zone and capable of matching up against the opposition’s top offensive threats when needed.
4. Physical Edge: Having a physical presence on the second line can help wear down opponents over the course of a series. Players with size, strength, and a willingness to engage in board battles and forechecking are assets.

What a Coach Requires

1. Consistency: Coaches expect the second line to provide a consistent, reliable source of secondary scoring and defensive support on a nightly basis.
2. Special Teams Contributions: The second line is often called upon to contribute on both the power play and penalty kill units, so players must be effective in these situations.
3. Situational Awareness: Second-line players need to understand their roles and responsibilities in different game situations, such as protecting a lead or generating offense when trailing.

What a General Manager Wants

1. Depth and Balanced Lineup: The GM aims to construct a lineup with scoring threats beyond just the top line, making the team more difficult to defend against.
2. Cost-Effective Production: While not as expensive as the top line, the second line still needs to provide good value in terms of production relative to their salary cap hit.
3. Potential for Growth: GMs often look for players on the second line who may still have untapped potential and could eventually develop into top-line contributors.

Ice Time Compared to the First Line

The first line typically receives the most ice time, often playing between 18-22 minutes per game in crucial situations. The second line, on the other hand, usually logs around 15-18 minutes of ice time per game, depending on the game situation and matchups. However, in close games or when trailing, the coach may lean more heavily on the top two lines, increasing the second line’s ice time accordingly.

Ultimately, the second line serves as a critical complementary piece to the top line, providing secondary scoring, defensive support, and a physical presence, while also contributing to special teams play. Finding the right balance of skill, versatility, and role-players is key for coaches and GMs in constructing an effective second line.

Third Line Characteristics

The third line on an NHL team aiming to win the Stanley Cup plays an important defensive and energy role. Here’s what a coach and general manager typically look for when constructing the third line:

Skills and Characteristics

1. Defensive Responsibility: The primary focus of the third line is defensive zone coverage and shutting down the opposition’s scoring threats. Players must have a strong understanding of positional play and defensive systems.
2. Energy and Forechecking: Third-line players are often tasked with providing an energetic and relentless forecheck, disrupting the opposition’s breakouts and creating turnovers.
3. Faceoff Proficiency: Having one or two reliable faceoff men on the third line is valuable for maintaining puck possession and starting shifts in the offensive zone.
4. Physical Presence: Coaches and GMs often look for players with size, strength, and a willingness to engage physically on the third line, as they are expected to wear down opponents over the course of a game and a series.

What a Coach Requires

1. Defensive Reliability: Coaches need to trust their third line in defensive situations, such as protecting a lead or killing penalties. Strong positional play and commitment to defensive details are essential.
2. Energy and Momentum Shifts: The third line is often used to provide an energy boost and shift momentum in the team’s favor through hard work and physical play.
3. Faceoff Prowess: Winning key faceoffs, especially in the defensive zone, is a responsibility coaches expect from their third line.

What a General Manager Wants

1. Cost-Effective Depth: GMs aim to find value and depth on the third line without breaking the salary cap bank.
2. Veteran Leadership: Having experienced veterans on the third line can provide valuable mentorship and leadership for younger players.
3. Versatility: Players who can contribute on special teams (penalty kill, and potentially the power play) add value and flexibility to the third line.

Ice Time Compared to the First and Second Lines

The third line typically receives the least amount of ice time, averaging between 10-14 minutes per game. However, their role and ice time can fluctuate based on game situations. When protecting a lead or killing penalties, the third line’s ice time may increase, while they may see less action when the team is trailing and needs more offense.

Overall, the third line’s primary responsibilities are defensive zone coverage, energy and forechecking, physical play, and winning key faceoffs. While not expected to provide significant offensive production, their ability to tilt the ice through hard work, disrupt the opposition’s offensive flow, and provide a physical presence is crucial for a team’s overall success in the playoffs.

Fourth Line Characteristics

The fourth line on an NHL team gunning for the Stanley Cup plays a specific role focused on energy, physicality, and defensive responsibility. Here’s what coaches and general managers typically look for when constructing this unit:

Skills and Characteristics

1. Energy and Forechecking: Fourth-liners are expected to provide a consistent injection of energy through relentless forechecking, finishing checks, and creating turnovers.
2. Defensive Responsibility: With limited offensive expectations, fourth-line players must excel in defensive zone coverage, positional play, and commitment to team systems.
3. Physicality and Grit: Size, strength, and a willingness to engage physically are highly valued traits on the fourth line, as they are expected to set the tone and wear down opponents.
4. Faceoff Ability: Having at least one reliable faceoff man on the fourth line can help the team start more shifts in the offensive zone.

What a Coach Requires

1. Consistent Work Ethic: Coaches demand a high compete level and unwavering effort from their fourth line, shift after shift, regardless of the score or situation.
2. Defensive Reliability: In close games or when protecting a lead, coaches must be able to trust their fourth line defensively, as they may be called upon to take crucial defensive zone faceoffs or kill penalties.
3. Energy Boost: The fourth line is often used strategically to provide an energy boost, either by sparking a momentum shift or responding to the opposition’s physical play.

What a General Manager Wants

1. Cost-Effective Depth: GMs aim to find value and depth on the fourth line, often relying on players on entry-level contracts or low-cost veterans.
2. Versatility: Players who can contribute on the penalty kill or potentially fill in on other lines due to injuries or matchup situations add extra value.
3. Organizational Depth: The fourth line can also serve as a development opportunity for prospects or young players who may eventually move up the lineup.

Ice Time Compared to Other Lines

The fourth line typically receives the least amount of ice time, averaging between 6-10 minutes per game. However, their role and ice time can fluctuate based on game situations. When protecting a lead, killing penalties, or needing an energy boost, the fourth line’s ice time may increase slightly. Conversely, when the team is trailing and needs more offensive production, their ice time may be reduced.

In summary, the fourth line’s primary roles are to provide energy, physicality, defensive responsibility, and a relentless work ethic. While not expected to contribute significantly on the scoresheet, their ability to tilt the ice through hard work, disrupt the opposition’s offensive flow, and provide a physical presence can be crucial in helping a team grind out tough playoff victories.

Top Defensive Pairing

The top defensive pairing on an NHL team aiming to win the Stanley Cup is crucial, as they are tasked with shutting down the opposition’s top offensive threats and logging heavy minutes in all situations.

Here are the key aspects that coaches and general managers look for in their top defensive duo:

1. Shutdown Ability: The primary responsibility of the top defensive pairing is to neutralize the other team’s best forwards. They need to excel in one-on-one battles, gap control, and defensive zone coverage. These defensemen must have the skating ability, physicality, and positional awareness to effectively contain the opposition’s top scorers.
2. Offensive Contributions: While defensive excellence is the priority, top-pairing defensemen are also expected to contribute offensively. They need to possess strong puck-moving abilities, vision, and the ability to join the rush or lead the breakout. Offensive production from the backend is a valuable asset, especially on the power play.
3. Physicality and Toughness: The playoffs are a grind, and the top defensive pairing must be able to withstand the physical rigors of a long postseason run. Size, strength, and a willingness to engage physically are necessary traits to wear down opponents and clear the front of the net.
4. Experience and Composure: With increased scrutiny and pressure in the playoffs, top-pairing defensemen need to have the experience and composure to handle high-stakes situations. They must remain calm under pressure, make sound decisions, and lead by example for the rest of the defensive corps.
5. Workload and Stamina: The top defensive pairing will typically log the highest ice time among defensemen, often playing 25-30 minutes per game in crucial situations. They need to have the stamina and endurance to maintain their high level of play over the course of a grueling playoff series.
6. Leadership and Mentorship: Top defensemen are often looked upon as leaders, both on and off the ice. They must set the tone for the rest of the team with their work ethic, compete level, and commitment to team systems. Additionally, they may be called upon to mentor and guide younger defensemen on the team.
7. Chemistry and Compatibility: While individual skills are important, the top defensive pairing must also have strong chemistry and compatibility. They need to read off each other’s movements, support each other in defensive and offensive situations, and develop an intuitive understanding of how to complement each other’s strengths.

Coaches and general managers will carefully evaluate defensemen based on these factors, as the top defensive pairing plays a crucial role in shutting down the opposition’s top threats, providing offensive contributions, setting the tone physically, and leading the team’s defensive efforts in pursuit of the Stanley Cup.

Second Defensive Pairing

The second defensive pairing on a Stanley Cup-contending team plays a vital role in providing depth, defensive reliability, and versatility on the back end. Here’s what coaches and general managers typically look for in this unit:

1. Defensive Responsibility: While not tasked with shutting down the opposition’s top threats, the second pairing must still excel in defensive zone coverage, gap control, and positional play.
2. Mobility and Puck-Moving Ability: In today’s fast-paced NHL, coaches value defensemen on the second pairing who can skate well and move the puck efficiently to aid in transition and breakouts.
3. Penalty Kill Contributions: Players on the second defensive pairing are often relied upon to log significant minutes on the penalty kill, requiring strong defensive awareness and the ability to block shots.
4. Offensive Upside: While not a primary responsibility, coaches and GMs appreciate offensive contributions from the second pairing, whether it’s through joining the rush, playing on the second power play unit, or providing a scoring threat from the point.
5. Versatility and Adaptability: The second pairing may be called upon to play more or fewer minutes depending on game situations, matchups, or injuries. Versatility to handle different roles and adapt to changing circumstances is valuable.
6. Mentorship and Development: For teams with prospects or younger defensemen, the second pairing can serve as a mentorship opportunity, helping to develop and integrate these players into the NHL game.

Third Defensive Pairing

The third defensive pairing on a Cup-contending team typically plays a more limited role but still provides important depth and specific skillsets.

Here’s what coaches and GMs look for:

1. Defensive Reliability: While not expected to log heavy minutes, the third pairing must still be sound defensively, with a strong understanding of positional play and team systems.
2. Physicality and Toughness: Teams often look for size, strength, and a physical edge on the third pairing to provide a defensive presence and intimidation factor.
3. Penalty Killing: Players on the third pairing may be called upon for penalty killing duties, especially when the team is shorthanded due to injuries or fatigue.
4. Situational Specialists: Some teams may utilize the third pairing for specific situations, such as defensive zone faceoffs, protecting a lead late in games, or matchup-specific roles.
5. Cost-Effective Depth: GMs aim to find value and depth on the third pairing, often relying on players on entry-level contracts or low-cost veterans.
6. Development Opportunities: For teams with prospects or younger defensemen, the third pairing can serve as an opportunity to gain NHL experience and develop their game in a more limited role.

While the top defensive pairing is expected to shoulder the heaviest workload, the second and third pairings play crucial supporting roles, providing depth, defensive reliability, special teams contributions, and specific skillsets that help complete a well-rounded defensive corps for a deep playoff run.

Goalies

NHL Roster Construction for Power Play (PP) and Penalty Kill (PK) Considerations (Special Teams & Situations)

Here’s how NHL teams typically utilize their forward lines and defensive pairings in special team situations like the power play and penalty kill when aiming to win the Stanley Cup:

Power Play

1. First Unit:

• Typically features the team’s top offensive talent from the first and second lines
• Consists of skilled playmakers, natural goal-scorers, and strong puck-handlers
• The first defensive pairing may be featured on the top power play unit for their puck-moving abilities and offensive upside

2. Second Unit:

• Often includes a mix of players from the second and third lines
• May have a net-front presence or a shooter from the point
• The second defensive pairing could be used on this unit for their offensive contributions or to gain experience

Penalty Kill

1. First Unit:

• Comprised of the team’s most reliable defensive forwards and defensemen
• Favors players with excellent anticipation, shot-blocking abilities, and faceoff proficiency
• The top defensive pairing is usually featured heavily on the first penalty kill unit

2. Second Unit:

• May include players from the third and fourth lines known for their work ethic and defensive responsibility
• The second defensive pairing often logs significant minutes on the second penalty kill unit
• Can also feature a more offensively-skilled forward to provide a shorthanded scoring threat

Defensive Zone Faceoffs

• Teams will often deploy their most reliable defensive forwards and defensemen for key defensive zone faceoffs
• This could include players from the third or fourth lines known for their faceoff prowess and defensive awareness

Protecting a Lead

• When protecting a lead late in games, coaches may shorten their bench and rely more heavily on their defensive-minded players
• The third and fourth lines, along with the second and third defensive pairings, could see increased ice time in these situations

Coaches and general managers construct their special teams and situational units based on specific strengths, weaknesses, and the skillsets of their players. Effective utilization of personnel in these situations can often mean the difference between winning and losing in the intense and high-stakes environment of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

NHL Roster Construction Summary

Building a championship-level NHL roster requires a carefully constructed mix of skill, physicality, defensive responsibility, and depth.

Here’s a template of what a GM would look for in each position and line to construct an elite Stanley Cup-contending team:

First Line

• Center: Elite two-way center with high-end offensive ability, faceoff prowess, and defensive commitment. A true superstar who can take over games.
• Wingers: Skilled scorers with a combination of goal-scoring touch, playmaking ability, and speed. Strong two-way play and the ability to drive offense.

Second Line

• Center: Skilled playmaker with excellent vision and hockey IQ. Solid two-way game and faceoff ability. Can produce offensively and match up against top lines.
• Wingers: Scoring threats with a mix of skill, physicality, and defensive awareness. Capable of providing secondary scoring and contributing on special teams.

Third Line

• Center: Defensively responsible center with strong faceoff skills and penalty-killing prowess. Can match up against top lines defensively.
• Wingers: Energy players with a relentless forecheck and physical edge. Solid defensive awareness and the ability to chip in offensively.

Fourth Line

• Center: Gritty, hard-working center who excels on faceoffs and the penalty kill. Provides energy and a physical presence.
• Wingers: Physical, high-energy players who can wear down opponents with their work ethic and forechecking. Defensive reliability and willingness to engage.

Top Defensive Pairing

Shutdown defenders with excellent gap control, positioning, and the ability to neutralize the opposition’s top scorers.

Strong puck-moving abilities and offensive talent/upside.

Second Defensive Pairing

Mobile, puck-moving defensemen with strong defensive awareness and penalty-killing abilities. Can contribute offensively and log heavy minutes.

Third Defensive Pairing

Defensive reliability and physicality. Can provide a physical presence, block shots, and contribute on the penalty kill in limited minutes.

Starting Goaltender

Elite, consistent performer with the athleticism, technique, and mental fortitude to make game-saving stops.

Playoff experience and the ability to handle pressure.

Backup Goaltender

Capable of stepping in and providing solid performances when needed.

Pushes the starter in practice and serves as a supportive team player.

Should be able to log 20-25 regular-season games per year.

Conclusion

This template covers the key attributes and skillsets needed across all positions and lines to build an elite, championship-caliber roster in the NHL.

Finding the right balance of skill, physicality, defensive responsibility, and depth is crucial, as is having strong leadership, team chemistry, and the ability to contribute in all situations, including special teams.

Building a well-rounded roster that can handle the grind of the playoffs is the ultimate goal.

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