Ask Dan Question & Answer

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Question #75:
Dan: I would like to know the proper technique for defensemen on a 3-on-2, or 4-on-2. What I would like to know is if the forwards criss-cross as they hit the blue line, does the defenseman closest to the forward with the puck follow him and force him to move the puck or do they play a "zone" coverage? H.M.

Dan Replies:
H.M. Every odd man rush is different and knowing your opponent and what they typically do and who you're playing with may have an important bearing on the answer.

But generally:

-- When it's an odd man rush, it should be clear that you can't play man-to-man because you're outnumbered. So some type of zone play is indicated.

-- If the offensive players crisscross, and one defenseman tries to follow the player with the puck, there will be too many bodies crossing and someone will get picked - so you need to signal a switch.

-- When you are defending a 3-on-2 you want to limit their scoring opportunities to the least dangerous part of the ice as possible. So you try to force the puck to the outside if you can and hope your goalie can stop a shot from a bad angle.

When you try to force the puck to the outside, you must try to prevent a pass to the slot - or worse to the crease - with your stick and by your body position.

-- If you are defending a 2 on 1, you try to stay between the two rushing players but you defend the person without the puck. Leave the puck carrier to the goalie and take away the pass to the other skater. Your goalie has a better chance of stopping one shooter than if he has to worry about two shooters and who's going to take the shot.

-- The best way to defend against 4 on 2's is to have your coach have a discussion with his forwards about being two-way players.

I hope this helps.

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