The NHL 2016-17 season is nearing its halfway mark, and some separation is starting to occur between the contenders and the pretenders. Aside from all of this, we're seeing some outstanding rookies, goaltending and goal scoring. Here's a quick rundown of the NHL season thus far: 

The NHL 2016-17 Season (So Far)

So just why should a goalie be included in the game plan? Here's a look at a few key benefits:

• Great rookies: Though all the rookie talk seems to center around Toronto's Auston Matthews (and rightfully so), there are a bevy of other talented rookies that are taking the league by storm. Take Columbus' Zach Werenski, for example. And you can't talk top NHL rookies without talking about Patrick Laine of the Winnipeg Jets.
• Sidney Crosby doing Sidney Crosby things: Fresh off helping his team to a Stanley Cup, Sidney Crosby continues to solidify himself as the best player in the world - even after missing the start of the season with a concussion. Through December 17, Crosby has tallied 21 goals and 12 assists.
• Surprise teams: If there's one surprise team this year, it's likely the Columbus Blue Jackets, who stand at 19-5-4 and are just two points out of first place in the Eastern Conference Standings as of December 17. 
• Streak snapped? The Detroit Red Wings have the league's longest consecutive playoff streak at 25 years. But that streak looks like it will be coming to an end. As of December 17, the Wings are a meager 13-14-4 and sit at seventh place in their division.
• Stellar goaltending: Usual suspects such as Carey Price and Tuukka Rask continue to excel between the pipes for their respective teams, but there have been some surprises in the NHL so far. Notably, Devan Dubynk of the Minnesota Wild, Chad Johnson of the Calgary Flames and Sergei Bobrovski of the Columbus Blue Jackets. 

Regardless of what NHL team you root for, it cannot be denied that the NHL is the best hockey league in the world. And when you're watching the world's best compete on the ice either in person or live at the rink, you can learn an incredible amount - whether you're a goaltender or a skater. We encourage you to take every opportunity you can to improve your game, even if it's while you're on your couch watching a hockey game.