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Dec 5
by Jeff Lynt
Unmasking Overlooked Defensive Woes:
Unmasking Overlooked Defensive Woes:
Factors for a Leaky Defense
Factors for a Leaky Defense
Too often, the spotlight falls solely on defensemen when a team faces a barrage of goals. While assessing and reassessing defensemen is crucial, they may not always be the sole problem or even to blame. In this five part series of articles, we delve beyond the traditional focus and explore other overlooked areas that contribute to a team allowing too many goals. While not an exhaustive list, we'll examine five key aspects that warrant further analysis, shedding light on the multifaceted factors influencing a team's defensive struggles.
These five key elements can shape a team's success on the ice. The first, "Poor Tracking and Missed Assignments," scrutinizes the consequences of lapses in defensive zone coverage, stressing the need for meticulous execution of individual assignments from the blue line to effective backchecking. Moving on, "The Role of the Centreman" underscores the centerman as a linchpin in both offensive and defensive play, acting as the "3rd defenseman" and emphasizing the critical role of understanding and executing defensive assignments. "Avoid Getting on Your Heels" cautions against a too-defensive posture, advocating for a proactive and aggressive stance to maintain control and avoid defensive lapses. "Neutral Zone Management" identifies the neutral zone as a crucial battleground, where effective strategies, including defensemen closing gaps and forwards understanding defensive responsibilities, can significantly reduce defensive lapses. Finally, "Keep Your Foot on the Gas" proposes a dynamic strategy involving relentless offensive pressure, intense forechecking, and sustained offensive presence to not only address defensive vulnerabilities but also disrupt opponents' game plans. Together, these elements offer a comprehensive overview of essential factors contributing to a team's defensive prowess in hockey.
Defensive zone coverage is pivotal for a team's success, relying on the meticulous execution of individual assignments. Each player's carefully crafted role serves as the cornerstone for preventing opponents' scoring opportunities and facilitating a seamless transition into offensive play. However, as we delve into the intricacies of defensive strategies, the article sheds light on the critical consequences that arise when tracking falters and assignments go awry. From the blue line to effective backchecking, this article explores the nuanced elements that make or break a team's defensive prowess, emphasizing the vital role of individual responsibilities in the collective effort for success.
We'll see how every player's job is crucial for a well-coordinated defensive unit. Defensive play isn't just about personal achievements; it's a team effort where trust and commitment to specific roles are vital. Join us as we dive into the strategic aspects of backchecking, exploring the 200-foot mindset, strategic positioning, and the teamwork needed to strengthen a team's defense. In the fast-paced world of hockey, the bottom line is simple: "Play your role, trust your teammates, and be confident in the team's abilities." This approach sets the stage for success, ensuring a strong defensive mindset and a powerful presence on the ice.
Often hailed as the engine of both offensive and defensive play, the centerman assumes the critical role of the team's unsung hero, balancing the delicate act of generating goals while ensuring defensive stability. Referred to as the "3rd defenseman," the centerman's actions on the ice wield a tremendous impact, acting as a cornerstone in both offensive and defensive scenarios. When a centerman falters in understanding or executing defensive assignments, the repercussions are evident, leading to defensive breakdowns that adversaries can exploit. Their strategic positioning, awareness of the opponent's movements, and adept decision-making become paramount. The centerman's role is not merely confined to offensive contributions; it extends to being a defensive stalwart. A thorough comprehension of defensive responsibilities is, therefore, key to preventing defensive breakdowns and fostering a cohesive defensive coverage that bolsters the team's overall performance on the ice.
When a team adopts a defensive posture and retreats too far into their own zone, they risk relinquishing control of the game. This defensive mindset often leads to a reactive approach, allowing the opponent to dictate the pace and apply sustained offensive pressure. Players may inadvertently shift from an assertive, attack-oriented mindset to a more containment-focused stance, leading to defensive lapses and increased vulnerability. In such situations, defensemen might find themselves overcommitted, opening up opportunities for skilled opponents to exploit gaps in coverage. To counteract this issue, teams must emphasize maintaining a proactive and aggressive posture, avoiding the pitfalls of over-defensive play and ensuring they remain in control of the game's tempo.
The neutral zone is the battleground for controlling entries. Effective strategies must be in place to ensure that the opposing team cannot breach the defensive blue line easily. Defensemen play a crucial role in closing gaps, while forwards must understand their responsibilities in preventing controlled entries. Tracking this metric and holding players accountable can lead to a significant reduction in defensive lapses.
Often underestimated, neutral zone turnovers are a significant factor that distinguishes strong defensive teams from vulnerable ones. Teams excelling in neutral zone defense can prevent the opposing team from entering the offensive zone, aligning with the modern defensive philosophy that a strong offense focused on possession is the best defense. The article emphasizes the connection between neutral zone turnovers, particularly by defensemen, and goals against, stressing the importance of secure puck management. By battling against neutral zone turnovers, teams can fortify their defensive capabilities and maintain control over the game's flow.
Another essential aspect explored here is the Neutral Zone Forecheck. Regardless of the chosen system, defensemen play a crucial role in using strategic angling techniques to thwart opponents attempting controlled entries. The focus is on directing offensive players towards the boards, limiting their options, and disrupting the natural flow of the game to create turnovers.
When grappling with defensive challenges, especially when possessing a formidable offensive arsenal, implementing a strategy of "keeping your foot on the gas" emerges as a compelling game plan. This approach involves maintaining an unrelenting offensive presence, applying intense forechecking, and consistently keeping the puck in the offensive zone. The objective is to establish and sustain offensive momentum, placing the opposing team on the defensive. By diverting the opponent's focus towards defending against relentless attacks, the strategy serves as a distraction and can lead to defensive lapses. The continuous offensive pressure increases the likelihood of forcing turnovers in the offensive zone, providing ample scoring opportunities. Furthermore, by controlling the time of possession and strategically minimizing exposure in the defensive zone, this approach not only addresses defensive vulnerabilities but also leverages offensive strengths as a proactive form of defense. Ultimately, "keeping your foot on the gas" is a dynamic and strategic advantage that optimizes offensive prowess to overcome defensive challenges and disrupt the opponent's game plan.
Jeff Lynt
Is a Head Scout with Elite Hockey Canada.
Founder of EHC Agency and he is a certified Hockey Scout and Agent with SMWW - Sports Management Worldwide. jeff.lynt@elitehockeycanada.com or jlynt@smww.com
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