Video Games can be a good way to train your concentration levels, and Ice Hockey Pro Mikhail Yegorov has admitted to using video games to keep himself sharp.

On The Sheet with Jeff Marek, Daily Faceoff prospect writer Steven Ellis narrated how New Jersey Devils goalie Mikhail Yegorov plays unique puzzle games on Steam to train, maintain, and improve his impromptu problem-solving skills and hand-eye coordination.

Mikhail Yegorov is hailed as the future of the New Jersey Devils, with the Boston University star taking the Terriers to the NCAA Championship as well as winning the Beanpot.

New Jersey opted to draft Yegorov in the second round of the 2024 NHL Draft and is pinning its hopes of finding a permanent star in the goalie position on the 20-year-old.

Hand-eye coordination is a big factor in Ice Hockey games, where the puck can come at goalies at insane speeds, especially with so many hard-hitting stars present on the rink.

Problem-solving is something that allows goalies to decide where to position themselves to have the best chance of denying the puck from going in.

Basically, Yegorov is using unique puzzle games on Steam to improve his positioning, reaction timing, and reflexes, all of which are not only doable through video games but an optimal way as well.

Studies Support Yegorov's Statements

Studies and research papers have often cited how video games can actually help in training brain functions and key motor skills.

In fact, an Eastern Kentucky University study in Fall 2025 proposed the same, inciting an interesting debate on the benefits of video gaming.

The study stated, "Despite the negative perception of video games, extensive research supports that video game play can improve cognitive skills, maximize intellectual capacity, facilitate collaborative learning, spark creative imagination, and advance development of soft skills, as well as positively impact mental health and personal relationships."

For example, playing high-octane games with on-the-fly adjustments allows you to train your problem-solving skills and also creates a habit of using creativity to solve critical issues.

A sports game such as NHL 26 can also help Ice Hockey athletes with different strategies and help them simulate the results of those strategies.

Often, coaches draw up game plans, which the athletes can understand better if they can apply them while playing the video game.

In Yegorov's case, unique puzzle games test his creativity and force him to think on his feet, whereas the gameplay warrants that his hands match his thinking, thus helping him rehearse his motor skills.

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Written by

Abhisek Bajaj

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote