[jyoung]

If you just skate your body into the goalie after the whistle using the left analog stick, you won't get any penalties called on you.

The only time they call roughing is if you actually check the goalie using the right joystick. Even then, it's rare to see them call a penalty.

I usually just fight anyone who messes with my goalie (the indicator to fight often pops up when they hit the goalie). They'll usually stop running into your goalie after you beat them up in a fight.