I have progressed to the point where I am playing NHL 2002 on 'difficult' setting. It seems impossible to get one past the goalie. I've tried one-timers, breakaways, dekes, full slap shots, ... I'm sick of the announcers saying that I need to work on my shooting percentage because I totally outshoot the opponents but lose games 1-0 or 2-0. What makes it even worse is that every third game or so, I'll get a goal on a weak backhand from a bad angle. Does anyone have any tips? I use manual shot aiming. Should I go back to auto?

I stick with Auto aim and have the same problem as you. What I do is try and change up my Offensive strategy a lot, especially when in their zone taking a face off. My season, my players are scoring like crap, but Patrick Roy has bailed me out with a .965 save percentage and winning all his games basically letting in a goal very few and far between. I also usually outshoot and outhit the other team 2 or 3 to 1 in both categories.

Also, I suggest mapping one of your buttons to the "Deflection" option. Deflection goals are wicked easy, even on "difficult" goalies. I use them when I am down by a goal to tie it up really quick - they also work great on the power play. I've found they work best with the "Crash the net" offensive option, since the forward who you want to make the deflection is already near the goal.

Oh, and switch back to Auto Shot Aim when playing on difficult. Those goalies are too freakin' good.

Hope this helps,