Embedded Files
Dec 5, 2023
by Jeff Lynt
Unmasking Overlooked Defensive Woes: Factors for a Leaky Defense
Unmasking Overlooked Defensive Woes: Factors for a Leaky Defense
Key # 5 - Keep your Foot on the Gas
Key # 5 - Keep your Foot on the Gas
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.
- Embrace Your Offensive Prowess:
When the puck resides in the opponent's zone, it's not a threat to your net. This approach challenges the traditional notion that a good defense is solely about preventing goals; it's about controlling the game by keeping the puck away from your own defensive zone.
It's crucial for coaching staff and players alike to recognize and embrace the team's offensive strengths. If your roster excels in high-scoring affairs but struggles in low-scoring battles, this becomes your unique identity. Rather than attempting to fit a square peg into a round hole, leverage your offensive prowess as a defensive strategy. A relentless offensive approach keeps the puck in the opponent's zone, minimizing the time spent defending and maximizing scoring opportunities. This acknowledgment doesn't discount the importance of defensive play; instead, it prompts a strategic approach where offense is the best form of defense. Keeping the pressure on the opposing team prevents them from capitalizing on defensive vulnerabilities.
- Fast and Consistant Forecheck:
Importantly complementing the "keep your foot on the gas" strategy, a strong offensive zone forecheck stands out as a linchpin in achieving overall team success. This facet of offensive play involves aggressively pressuring the opposing team in their defensive zone, aiming to disrupt their breakout attempts and regain possession of the puck. A well-executed offensive zone forecheck not only sustains the pressure created by the continuous offensive presence but also forces turnovers deep in the opponent's territory. By deploying forwards strategically to apply pressure on the defensemen and creating chaos in the offensive zone, teams can maintain control, generate scoring opportunities, and limit the opponent's ability to transition into an offensive stance. The offensive zone forecheck thus becomes an integral component of the broader strategy, seamlessly connecting offensive dominance with defensive disruption and contributing significantly to a team's overall success on the ice.
- A Holistic Defensive Mindset:
Being a offensive team doesn't excuse players from transitioning quickly to an defensive mindset and action when turnovers happen. Consideration for defensive prowess should extend far beyond the blue line. Every player, irrespective of position, needs to embody a robust defensive mindset. It's about cultivating a collective commitment to keeping opponents at bay, not just relying on a select few players labeled as defensemen. Understanding that defense is a team effort fosters an environment where players contribute defensively regardless of their position.
The importance of ongoing defensive development is crucial. However, recognizing and building on a strong defensive base provides a more stable platform for improvement. A team with a collective defensive mindset is better positioned to absorb defensive teachings and strategies, turning the uphill battle of improvement into a climb with a solid foundation.
In essence, defining the team's identity is about more than selecting players with defensive capabilities; it's about instilling a culture where defense is a collective responsibility and leveraging offensive strengths as a defensive strategy. Crafting a defensive identity from the core sets the stage for a team that is not only adept at preventing goals but strategically adept at controlling the flow of the game.
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
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse