Dec 5, 2023

by Jeff Lynt

Unmasking Overlooked Defensive Woes: Factors for a Leaky Defense

Key # 4 - Neutral Zone Management:

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 overshadowed by offensive plays and defensive zone strategies, the neutral zone is the unsung hero of defensive prowess. Teams that effectively manage this transitional area disrupt opponents' offensive flow, limit their controlled entries, and set the stage for defensive dominance. Coaches should instill the understanding that the battle for defensive control begins long before opponents reach the defensive blue line.

• Turnovers

Neutral zone turnovers pose a serious threat in hockey, proving to be a significant factor that separates strong defensive teams from vulnerable ones. Regardless of how you measure it—per exit, touch, or minute—teams with frequent turnovers struggle defensively. It's important not to solely blame the player with the most turnovers, as they are often the most active on the ice. The key distinction lies in teams that excel not just in winning the neutral zone but, more importantly, in the effectiveness of each entry, both for and against. A team that can defend the neutral zone well can prevent the opposing team from even entering the offensive zone, reflecting the modern defensive philosophy that the best defense is a strong offense focused on possession. There's a clear connection between neutral zone turnovers, particularly by defensemen, and goals against, underlining the importance of secure puck management. Players in possession need to be cautious, avoiding unnecessary puck handling and opting for strategic moves like passing to teammates, joining the rush, or making well-timed dumps deep into the offensive zone. The battle against neutral zone turnovers is crucial for strengthening a team's defensive capabilities and maintaining control over the game's flow. 

• Neutral Zone Forecheck

Regardless of the chosen system for a neutral zone forecheck, defensemen play a crucial role by employing strategic angling techniques to thwart opponents attempting controlled entries. The emphasis lies in directing offensive players towards the boards, limiting their options, and disrupting the natural flow of the game to create turnovers. 

In this defensive strategy, it is imperative to highlight the importance of funneling the puck carrier into a position where the D1 defender can step up and deny the opposing player a controlled zone entry. By guiding the offensive player towards a strategic location, defenders set the stage for D1 to assertively intervene and prevent the opponent from gaining control of the offensive zone. This coordinated approach maximizes the defensive impact and strengthens the team's ability to control the neutral zone.

Forwards play a vital role in funneling, contributing through strategic positioning and applying pressure on opposing players. By creating turnovers and disrupting passes, forwards not only impede offensive entries but also set the groundwork for potential counterattacks. Coaches should underscore the dual responsibility of forwards, emphasizing their integral role in offensive contributions and their position as the primary line of defense in the neutral zone. 

Neutral zone management is the linchpin of defensive success in elite hockey. Coaches must emphasize the defensive importance of the neutral zone, guide players in effective angling and gap closure, instruct forwards in strategic pressure tactics, implement tracking metrics, and foster a teamwide understanding. By elevating neutral zone management to a strategic fortress, teams can establish a formidable defense that disrupts opponents, limits controlled entries, and lays the foundation for overall defensive dominance.

• See more about Neutral Zone Play 

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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