4.2 - Protect the Puck
What Is It?
To protect the puck means to shield it from a defender. You want to essentially use your body to form a wall between the defender and the puck. If the puck is exposed, you are not effectively protecting the puck.
When to Use It
Basic puck protection read:
- Within 2 stick-lengths of an opponent: You must use some form of puck protection anytime you are within 2 stick lengths of an opponent’s stick. Make this automatic. Anytime a defender comes within 2 stick lengths of the puck when you have it, get into puck protection immediately.
Advanced puck protection reads:
- Shoulder Position: Get your inside shoulder slightly in front of your opponent’s outside shoulder
- Speed Advantage: Be going slightly faster than your opponent.
- First Touch: You are about to receive a pass or retrieve a loose puck, but you will be under instant pressure when you do so.
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