Defensive Puck Movement: Gaining & Maintaining Control of the Puck

Defensive puck movement

When recovering the puck, the d-mans first job is to clear the “danger zone” (in red below).  This is the most important part of a defenseman’s position and takes priority over everything else.

Once clear, the puck should not be passed or moved back into this zone, especially at a lower level of play.  Off the boards and out is a safe play.  Using the boards and glass at the half-boards will help avoid icing calls and will make it harder for attacking d-men to hold the puck in the zone.

Things to remember:

• Clear the “danger zone” (red area)
  • Try to get possession
  • If you can’t, get the puck to the walls
  • Try to avoid up the middle unless you’re sure
  • Use your hands and feet if necessary
•  Gaining possession: Move your feet first
  • Find the space, don’t skate to traffic
  • If unsure, head to the “quiet zone” (behind the net)
• Once moving and clear of pressure, find a pass
  • Don’t try to pass while standing still – move first
  • without the puck re-entering the danger zone
  • Do not force it
  • Read about Breakout Systems (coming soon)
• If no clean pass is available, Clear the zone
  • Put it high and off the boards or glass.
  • Better to put it behind your own net or in the corner than up the middle blindly
  • Rim it as a last resort

This is often expressed by coaches by saying:

“Look, skate, look, pass”

If you are the last man back, pass  or dump the puck with any pressure.  Don’t be that guy who turns the puck over with no support.  Clear the zone.