Puck Support

Expect the puck, want the puck, and be prepared for a pass every time you are on the ice and skating around. As a player without the puck, the onus is on you to become an option. One way to do this is to change the point of attack from side to side or from top to bottom. Balanced positioning is also key, and that involves ensuring that the player with the puck is supported by teammates on both sides. You can support the puck carrier by setting screens and legal picks which create time and space.

Today’s game also means you must take advantage of the eliminated red line and ensure that the stretch man stretches with purpose – to open up the ice and become an option.