^
Yup, that's another good point. Being aware of how your blade is sitting on the ice is important as well.
It doesn't have to be a huge cradle to receive the puck smoothly, just enough so you can receive the puck and make a quick play with it. Cradling the puck acts as a cushion - both forehand and backhand.
I was taught to cradle by Shane Doan back in the day so it stuck with me haha
