To Score More, Get to the Net !

Nov 16

by Jeff Lynt

The seemingly simple mantra, "To score more, get to the net," holds a profound truth in hockey strategy, yet its execution often eludes teams. In the pursuit of goals, the net area becomes both the destination and the battleground, a space where opportunities are maximized. Despite its straightforward nature, teams frequently fall victim to the allure of ill-advised shots from unfavorable angles and excessive distances. This tendency, born from the eagerness to capitalize on every opportunity, often results in missed chances. The art of effective goal-scoring lies not in complexity but in the disciplined commitment to reaching the net, capitalizing on close-range opportunities, and navigating the chaos of the crease. In essence, the path to scoring success lies not in rocket science but in the unwavering dedication to a fundamental principle: get to the net, and do it relentlessly. 

Scoring goals in hockey is indeed a challenging endeavor, and recognizing the most effective strategies to create scoring opportunities is crucial. Emphasizing the importance of getting players to the net, especially in the high-traffic areas close to the goal, aligns with the statistical reality that a significant percentage of goals are scored in these close-range situations.

The emphasis on generating chances off the cycle, along the boards, is a testament to the strategic advantage of controlling play in the offensive zone. This approach not only allows for sustained pressure but also provides opportunities for players to position themselves effectively in front of the net. It acknowledges the value of creating scoring opportunities through strategic plays, precise passing, and the physical battles along the boards. 

• See a previous article about the importance of Mastering Board Battles. 

While individual scoring off the rush may offer the allure of speed and excitement, they are not as statistical effectiveness as plays generated through deliberate offensive strategy as getting players to the net for screens and rebounds. Coaches incorporating these strategies recognize the importance of sustained offensive pressure, player positioning, and the gritty battles near the net as key elements in increasing the likelihood of scoring success. In the ever-evolving landscape of hockey, a well-balanced and strategic offensive approach, incorporating both rush and cycle strategies, remains essential for maximizing goal-scoring opportunities.

• Also see Team Scoring: On the Rush with focus on Net Presence 

• Also see: Creating Scoring Chances 

Net Front Presence

Net Front Presence (NFP) emerges as a clear conductor orchestrating goals. Exploring Net Front Presence scoring goes beyond admiring highlight-reel shots from standout players like Austin Matthews or Connor Bedard. It leads us into the rugged narrative of the goal crease, where the competition is intense, and scoring goals is a result of unwavering determination. In this close-quarters battleground, success isn't just about skill; it's about players demonstrating resilience, grit and sheer tenacity to secure those hard-fought goals.

The Strong Side Circle:

Situated in front or next to the goalie on the strong side, the Strong Side Circle plays a crucial role in the aftermath of shots from a distance. As players anticipate and capitalize on rebounds, this zone becomes a hotspot for creating close-range scoring opportunities. It's less about orchestrated brilliance and more about players being in the right spot at the right time, ready to convert the aftermath of long shots into tangible offensive gains.

The Dot Wide - Back Post Circle (2nd circle)

Near the back post, the Dot Wide - Back Post Circle is where players wait for rebounds resulting from shots directed at the net. This area isn't about calculated anticipation; it's about seizing opportunities. Positioned strategically, players showcase the importance of timing and awareness, turning rebounds off the goalie's pads into crucial scoring chances. It's a gritty space where players convert the aftermath of distant shots into tangible offensive wins.

The Slot Circle (3rd circle):

In the heart of offensive action, the Slot Circle is a high-traffic zone where players actively navigate redirects and secondary chances following shots from further out. It's not about chaos meeting precision; it's about players with quick reflexes navigating the close-quarters combat near the net. Goals from the Slot Circle aren't theatrical masterpieces; they're the result of players effectively handling the dynamic aftermath of distant shots, turning them into practical offensive successes.

Screens and Tips

Integral to mastering NFP is the subtle art of goalie disruption. It's not just about physical presence; it's about engaging in a mental chess match with the goaltender. Players strategically mimic the goalie's movements, partake in the delicate dance of obstructing the goaltender's line of sight, and deploy the "Skinny Screen" technique, presenting a narrow target that confounds the goalie and elevates the chances of a successful shot reaching the net.

Adding layers to the dynamism of NFP is the concept of Flash Screens and Movement. Timing becomes paramount as players execute Flash Screens, darting past the goalie just as the shot is taken, momentarily unsettling the goaltender. Also moving slowly towards the shooter and into the slot area increases the size of the obstructed view for the goalie increases the likelihood of direct goals, deflections and rebounds paving the way for invaluable scoring opportunities.

Beyond the playbook of Net Presence lies the narrative of active puck engagement. Tips and deflections evolve into an art form, where players adeptly redirect shots on goal, employ Flash Tips combining movement with deflection skills, and execute tips off the net to create chaos, disrupting defensive structures and opening avenues for additional scoring chances.

Low Jam and Attack the Net

Low Jam and Attacking the Net, underscore the relentless pursuit of scoring opportunities. Low Jam encapsulates the strategy of staying low and engaged in the intense battles around the crease. This positioning allows players to secure loose pucks, be primed for rebounds, and capitalize on the chaos unfolding in the high-traffic areas. Simultaneously, Attacking or Funneling to the Net demands a proactive approach from players. Whenever a shot is taken or the puck lurks loose in the blue paint, the directive is clear: drive towards the net. By creating traffic, positioning oneself underneath, and tirelessly attacking the net, players significantly increase the team's chances of converting those gritty, close-range opportunities into goals. These principles not only embody the physicality of the game but also epitomize the strategic mindset needed to secure scoring chances in the relentless battle for supremacy around the goal crease. 

Mastering Net Front Presence is akin to unlocking the gateway to scoring success. By strategically positioning players, disrupting the goalie's focus, and actively engaging with the puck, teams can significantly enhance their offensive capabilities. The keys to NFP outlined here serve as a guide for coaches and players looking to elevate their game and dominate in front of the net.

Debunk: Garbage Goals

In the realm of hockey's scoring dynamics, debunking the notion of "garbage goals" becomes paramount. "Garbage goals" is a term used in hockey to describe goals that are scored in close proximity to the net, often in the goal crease or the immediate vicinity. Contrary to conventional wisdom, these hard-fought, close-quarter victories are not inconsequential; they are the essence of success. The term "garbage goals" inherently undermines their importance. It perpetuates the notion that goals scored in the crease are somehow less valuable, less skillful. However, in reality, it's these very goals that often tip the scales in favor of victory. These goals typically result from rebounds, deflections, or scrappy plays in front of the goaltender. 

The term "garbage" might imply that these goals are somehow less skillful or less aesthetically pleasing than goals scored from a distance or through intricate plays.  This misguided mindset has inadvertently stifled scoring innovation. Players, coaches, and even fans are seduced by the allure of the spectacular, the highlight-reel goals that adorn sports shows and social media. But in fixating on the spectacular, they overlook the efficacy of the strategic and the hard-earned. The relentless pursuit of perfection in the goal crease is overshadowed by the allure of the perfect shot from the top of the circle.

The result? Teams miss out on opportunities. Coaches fail to recognize the importance of a gritty forward relentlessly battling in front of the net, and players shy away from the dirty areas where goals are often won. Shifting this mindset is not just about recognizing the value of "garbage goals"; it's about acknowledging their pivotal role in scoring success. As the wise sports adage dictates, "They don't ask how, they ask how many." It's time to celebrate every hard-fought inch in the goal crease, recognizing that goals scored close to the net are not merely statistics but the bedrock of success. 

While some may use the term "garbage goals" to downplay the perceived skill involved in scoring close-range goals, others argue that these goals are a testament to a player's ability to position themselves effectively, capitalize on rebounds, and demonstrate persistence in high-traffic areas.

In a broader sense, many hockey enthusiasts and professionals prefer to refer to these goals as "net-front goals" or goals scored through "net-front presence" to emphasize the strategic positioning and effort required to score in the challenging and contested areas around the goal. The term "garbage goals" may carry a negative connotation, but recognizing their significance underscores the importance of being effective in the gritty and competitive spaces near the net.

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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