2-on-1 – Read the Defender

How to run it

Two forwards attack one defender and the goalie. The puck carrier reads the defender: if the defender commits to the puck, pass; if the defender takes away the pass, shoot. Trains decision-making on the rush and defending when outnumbered.

Set-up

Half ice. Two forwards in the neutral zone with a puck, one defender at the blue line, goalie in net. The next pair and the next defender wait. Forwards switch sides each rep.

Instructions

1. 1Two forwards in the neutral zone, one defender at the blue line, goalie in net. The next pair and the next defender wait.
2. 2The puck carrier attacks with speed on the wing, the partner keeps pace on the other side. The defender skates backwards.
3. 3Over the blue line: the forwards keep their width, the defender holds the middle.
4. 4The puck carrier drives wide to the net – the defender has to commit to the puck. The goalie sets up on the shooter.
5. 5Saucer pass across under the defender's stick to the partner on the far side.
6. 6One-timer before the goalie can get across.
7. 7The first pair curls out to the boards. The next defender steps in and the next pair goes.
8. 8The new pair attacks with speed; the defender skates backwards and keeps the gap.
9. 9This time the defender stays in the middle and takes away the pass. The first pair is back in line.
10. 10The puck carrier reads it and takes the puck to the net; the partner drives the net for the rebound.
11. 11Shot at the far post.

Coaching points

• Puck carrier: skate at the defender so they must decide – then you know what to do.
• Partner: stick on the ice and be an option, not too far back.
• Defender: stay in the middle, take away the pass and let the goalie have the shooter.
• Always finish on the net – a rebound is a chance too.

Variations