Nov 16 , 2023

by Jeff Lynt

Unmasking Overlooked Defensive Woes: Factors for a Leaky Defense

Key # 1 - Poor Tracking and Missed Assignments

In the dynamic realm of 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 titled "Poor Tracking and Missed Assignments" 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. 

Missed Assignments

The intricacies of defensive play hinge on the understanding and meticulous execution of individual assignments. When players miss their designated roles, defensive breakdowns ensue, opening up opportunities for opponents to exploit vulnerabilities. The cohesiveness of a team's defensive coverage relies heavily on every player comprehending and adhering to their specific responsibilities. In essence, understanding assignments is the linchpin for constructing a robust defensive framework, essential for preventing scoring attempts and maintaining a resilient defensive stance. 

Defensive zone coverage, individual assignments hold the key to success in the collective effort of a hockey team. Each player is entrusted with specific roles, carefully crafted to complement the team's overall strategy. The cohesion of these roles not only thwarts the opponent's scoring opportunities but also forms the foundation for a successful transition into offensive play.

Assignments are more than just individual responsibilities; they are the threads that weave together the fabric of a well-coordinated defensive unit. Each player's role is crucial, contributing to the seamless functioning of the team's defensive structure. It's imperative for players to understand that in a collective team game, the significance of assignments extends beyond personal achievements to the success of the entire team.

The essence of these designated roles lies not only in what each player is tasked with but also in what they refrain from doing. Attempting to take on a teammate's assignment, however well-intentioned, can lead to confusion, breakdowns in coverage, and, ultimately, scoring opportunities for the opposing team. In the world of defensive zone coverage, a misstep by one player can have a domino effect, creating vulnerabilities that skilled opponents are quick to exploit.

A fundamental principle in effective defensive play is the unwavering commitment to one's own role. Players must resist the temptation to overextend, trusting that their teammates are equally committed to executing their assignments with precision. It's a delicate balance that hinges on mutual trust and respect for each other's abilities. Trust allows players to focus on their specific responsibilities, confident that their teammates are doing the same.

In essence, defensive play is a testament to the strength of the team, where the sum of individual assignments forms a robust defensive unit. The mantra becomes clear: "You play your role, trust your teammates, and have confidence in the collective abilities of the team." This approach fosters a resilient defensive mindset, laying the groundwork for success in the fast-paced and dynamic world of hockey.

Backchecking  / Track Back

Defensive responsibility extends beyond the blue line. A team's forwards play a pivotal role in preventing opponents from gaining momentum. Backchecking isn't just about effort; it's about strategy. Players must understand where to position themselves and how to disrupt the opponent's advances. A solid 200-foot mindset is non-negotiable for a team aiming to fortify its defensive prowess. Effective backchecking goes beyond effort; it requires an understanding of defensive responsibilities and execution. Players need to know where to position themselves in relation to the puck, the opposing players, and their teammates. This includes recognizing when to apply pressure, when to contain, and when to disrupt passing lanes. A well-executed backcheck not only halts the opponent but can lead to turnovers and transition opportunities.

• 200-Foot Mindset:

Backchecking isn't merely a defensive duty; it's a mindset that spans the entire length of the rink. Players must be cognizant of their defensive responsibilities from the opponent's goal line to their own. This 200-foot mindset ensures that defensive contributions aren't confined to the defensive zone alone. It's about recognizing the defensive role in all areas of the ice, ensuring opponents face resistance at every turn.

Also See: 

• Understanding the Importance of Being a Plus Hockey Player 

• How to Impress the Scouts: What you need to know. 

• Playing a Well-Rounded Game 

• Strategic Positioning and Tracking:

Backchecking isn't a sprint to the defensive zone; it's a strategic dance that requires players to position themselves effectively. Understanding the opponent's movements and tracking their progress are essential elements of backchecking. This strategic dance is guided by individual assignments that players must adhere to. Each player has a specific role in disrupting the opponent's offensive advances. Anticipating the play, adjusting positioning accordingly, and executing designated assignments are critical aspects of effective backchecking. This ensures a collective effort to prevent the opposition from gaining momentum and helps the team regain control of the game. 

Players must grasp key terms like "backchecker/tracker" (the player backchecking), "tracking" (the route taken during backchecking), and the pivotal concept of staying "above the puck," signifying the defensive side of the play. Individual tactics play a crucial role in enhancing backchecking effectiveness, and two fundamental strategies stand out. Firstly, players should funnel back through the middle when heading towards their own net, ensuring they force the play to the outside and position themselves advantageously upon re-entering the defensive zone. Secondly, adopting the principle of getting above the puck or reloading emphasizes staying on the defensive side of the opposition when backchecking.

When backchecking as a team, the bedrock of success lies in clear communication and a steadfast adherence to assigned roles, especially between defensemen and backchecking forwards. A pivotal question arises: Who is assigned to cover the puck carrier? This query delves into the core of defensive strategies, forcing a choice between whether defensemen should engage the puck carrier or if the backchecking player should align themselves strategically with the puck or passing options. Two common pitfalls emerge during backchecking: over-backchecking, where the team retreats excessively into their own zone, and puck gravity, where multiple players converge on the puck carrier, neglecting their assigned potential passing options. The remedy lies in reinforcing communication and cultivating a deep understanding of assigned roles at the team level.

Individually, effective backchecking involves navigating through the middle, strategically halting in defensive positions, regularly shoulder checking for situational awareness, and conscientiously covering assigned potential passing options – a practice colloquially known as "suffocating the passing options." These individual strategies come together into a comprehensive and effective team backchecking approach. By adhering to designated assignments and communicating effectively, the team ensures a well-coordinated effort to disrupt the opponent's advances, promoting a more secure defensive stance and increasing the likelihood of regaining control of the game.

Also See:  

• Hockey Sense: The Key to Success on the Ice 

• Section: Hockey Sense 

In conclusion, the significance of individual assignments in defensive zone coverage cannot be overstated; they serve as the linchpin for a hockey team's collective success. Carefully crafted roles empower players to thwart the opponent's scoring opportunities and seamlessly transition into offensive play. Beyond the blue line, forwards play a crucial role in preventing opponents from gaining momentum through effective backchecking. However, poor tracking and missed assignments can jeopardize the team's defensive prowess.

For a team to fortify its defensive capabilities, a solid 200-foot mindset is imperative. Effort alone is not enough; strategic positioning and a nuanced understanding of defensive responsibilities are equally critical. The effectiveness of backchecking hinges on players knowing when to apply pressure, when to contain, and when to disrupt passing lanes. In the face of poor tracking and missed assignments, defensive vulnerabilities emerge, undermining the team's efforts.

Complete Series:

• Key # 1 - Poor Tracking and Missed Assignments:

• Key # 2 - The Role of the Centreman:

• Key # 3 - Avoid Getting on your Heels:

• Key # 4 - Neutral Zone Management:

• Key # 5 - Keep your Foot on the Gas

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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