The analog thumb pad and stick is a good fit. This gem seems to have been overlooked by NHL 2K's detractors. Response to stick input is lightning fast, providing a very satisfying level of control. The ice skating motion and the gliding of the thumb stick are certainly a video gaming match made in heaven. You get the picture.
Skaters seem to move at multiple speeds.
The differences are subtle but discernible, if you take the time to notice. Compare this to NBA 2K, in which a ball handler's movement up the court has several speeds depending upon the degree of stick deflection. He doesn't stop abruptly. You'd best enjoy the button layout in NHL 2K because there's not much you can do to change it. So far as I can tell, the X and A buttons can be swapped, but that's about it folks.