Easy Goals
First, choose the "Aggressive Faceoff" with the Left Analog-stick. Pass to the player to your right. That exact player can go easily in a breakaway. While you control this player, call for help with the Black button. When you get halfway between the goal and the blue line, stop for about three sec. By stopping, you will dodge the opposing defense's check. Then, go on in a circular way to the back of the goal. Hold the B button and release it when you get just about past the net. You will score a goal about 80% of the time.
Getting good players cheaply
Get your legal upgrades all the way up so that you can sign players for less. Save the game, then release a high paying player into free agency. Immediately negotiate a new contract. With all the upgrades you can get players to take multimillion dollar pay cuts. Make sure you save first; if you go too low on the offer the player may be insulted and not talk to your team anymore.