I really like your methodology with the goalies and feel they respond realistically in your ROM. For the most part, they don't wander out of the net unless they can safely play a puck. My sampling size is small so far - about 12 games - but the games have produced sim-like experiences with scores to match. I completely agree there are no superstar goalies anymore and appreciate the absence of any 'Goalie Gods' who are akin to a brick wall no matter what you do. Every season seems to have their strong performers, including out-of-nowhere candidates like Robin Lehner, which is just a great story for athletes in general. My biggest gripe in hockey video games are the "cheap" goals, which do happen in the NHL but with unrealistic frequency in the video games. I think keeping the goalies close to their net is a credit to addressing this, so fine work on your end. Really appreciate your thought process and desire for realism.
I had one game where I took 5 penalties in the first period and injured two players. I attributed this to me being an aggressive checker and wonder if maybe I should utilize the poke check more often? Guys do get leveled in the NHL, but I doubt with the frequency I dish out. I've just utilized the check option because it's there but ultimately I'm looking to mirror as close to the NHL as possible.