Individual Defensive Tactics of Elite NHL Centermen
Three things to focus on
In the high-stakes game of NHL hockey, the defensive acumen of a centerman is as vital as their offensive output. Drawing from my experience as a player development coach, I’ve identified three individual defensive tactics that elite centermen embody. Here, I’ll delve into three specific habits and offer actionable insights for coaches and parents to integrate these practices into young players’ routines.
1. Precision in Face-off Wins:
The Habit:
Elite centermen are distinguished by their ability to win face-offs, particularly in the defensive zone. Their ability to secure puck possession from the first battle of the shift is something that doesn’t get talked about or worked on enough. The details are rooted in their stance, hand positioning, and quick reflexes.
Action Steps:
Refine the Stance: Ensure players adopt a low, balanced stance with their knees bent and body square to the opponent. A solid base of support puts you in a favorable position for battle.
Hand Positioning: Everyone is slightly different in where they like to hold their hand. Some use the overhand grip, and some use the same grip as their shot. Practice quick hand movements, emphasizing the importance of the lower hand’s power and the upper hand’s precision.
Anticipation Drills: Develop reaction speed through drills that mimic the drop of the puck to enhance timing and anticipation.
2. Detailed Defensive Zone Positioning:
The Habit:
In the defensive zone, elite centermen are vigilant and strategic. They consistently cover the areas between the D, use their stick and feet effectively to block passing lanes, and are always ready to transition from defense to offense by pushing the pace through the middle.
Action Steps:
Coverage Details: During small area games or defensive drills, focus on scanning the ice to stay between your check and your net. Instill the habit of scanning the ice instead of just watching the puck so you are aware of the scoring threats on the other team
Stick detail: Teach players to keep their sticks on the ice and be ready to disrupt opponents’ passes and shots. A great defensive stick can deter the opponent from making plays that result in scoring chances. Focus on placing your stick blade on the ice where you can get a puck touch.
Communicating: Encourage all teammates, but in particular
the centers, to direct traffic and take the lead on communicating. Focus on sharing out loud the obvious: who is guarding who, how much time someone has, and where the options are.
3. Effective Checking:
The Habit:
Elite centermen are relentless in closing gaps to take away the opponent’s time and space to make a play. They track close with speed, with stick on puck and their body taking away lanes of the opponent. It is important to do these things firmly and hard with your stick and body. Hockey is a physical game, and elite centers make life on the opponent miserable
Action Steps:
Closing or angling drills: Implement drills to ensure players recognize how and when to close gaps quickly, and effectively and engage in body contact. This does not mean it always needs to be bone-crushing hits, rather, using physical intent to eliminate options of the opponent.
Puck Tracking: Teach players to focus on the puck carrier and their intentions or options, using their body and stick to pressure or contain the opponent depending on the situation.
Defensive Body Positioning: Train players on using their bodies to protect the middle of the ice and steer opponents away from dangerous areas while avoiding penalties.
The nuanced defensive roles of elite NHL centermen are anchored in specific, honed habits. Precision in face-offs, defensive zone positioning, and effective checking are not just skills but important habits that are meticulously crafted and refined. Coaches and parents equipped with these insights and action steps are empowered to mold young centermen who are not only assets in offense but also elite in defense, epitomizing the revered two-way player in the world of hockey.