Defensive zone positioning for defensemen is simple once the habits stick. These rules cover even-strength play for beginner to intermediate beer league teams.
Even-strength rules of thumb
- When the puck is in your corner, fight for it.
- When the puck is in the other corner, fight to own the front of the net.
- When the puck is up high, cover the forwards near the net and keep the net front clear.
- When you are not engaged in the corner, control the players closest to the net on your side or in front.
- There should always be at least one defenseman in front of the net while the puck is in the zone.
There are exceptions, but these are good rules to start with.
Positions to avoid
- Do not chase behind the net (usually).
- Do not chase above the dots (usually).
- Do not screen your goalie unless you have to engage an open attacker.
Puck moves across (do not chase)
A common mistake is chasing the puck too much. When it moves to the opposite side, you usually should not chase far across the mid-line, especially when it goes behind the net. A defenseman who chases behind the net gets caught out of position fast. Talk to your partner.
When the puck moves behind the net from the corner, the defender follows to the net.
If he chases behind the net, the forward can use the net as a pick, get a clean shot, or create an outnumbered attack in the crease. That is especially true if you are trailing the puck carrier.
Instead, he takes his place in front of the net and his partner engages the puck carrier as he comes around.
When you might chase across the mid-line
- When you are already playing the puck carrier's body along the boards
- When the puck is loose or the carrier has a poor handle
- When your partner cannot pick up the player on the other side
In a scramble or broken play, retreat to your side of the net and take away space from the opponent closest to your post.
Quick checklist
- Your corner: battle for the puck.
- Other corner: own the net front.
- Puck up high: keep the net front clear.
- At least one D in front whenever the puck is in the zone.
- Do not chase mid-line or behind the net unless the exceptions above apply.
- Scramble: get to your post and take away the nearest threat.
Bottom line
Fight your corner, own the net front when the puck is elsewhere, and stop chasing across the mid-line. Stay home so your partner can finish the play.
That is easier when the same D pairs show up every week. If sorting out who is in still happens in a group text, that is what RosterFX is for.
Keep reading: Defensive Puck Movement · Defensive Body Position · Basic Breakout Strategy · More Hockey 101
