The ability to get the puck off the stick and on net is a skill reserved for goal scorers. So many young players want to take that extra stick handle, and in doing so spoil their scoring opportunity. Examples of both were evident in the 2013 Stanley Cup Finals. Take Daugavins play in overtime of Game 1 in the Cup Finals for example. Instead of releasing right away, one too many moves (and a great play by Oduya) took the scoring chance away.
Or take for example Patrick Kanes OT Goal in Game 5 of the Western Conference finals. The puck was off his stick before you know it. Had he held onto the puck a split second longer, Quick would have time to re-set himself and square up to the puck. With a release like that on a puck sliding cross ice, Quick or any other goalie in the world didn't have a chance.
Below are some hockey drills that focus on quick releases. In each one the players are receiving a pass in the scoring area from different angles. The idea is to get the puck off their sticks as quickly as possible.
Pivot, Receive, Shoot
As simple as this drill looks it is tough to do right and players can always be challenged to do it better. Two lines with pucks are set up in the high slot as shown. The first player in line will skate forwards up to the cone and pivot around the cone so they are always facing the puck. As they transition forwards they have their stick on the ice calling for the puck. The second player in line gives them a pass and the player must receive the pass and get a shot off in two touches or less. Here's a link to the animation:
http://www.icehockeysystems.com/hockey-drills/pivotreceive-shoot
Quick Touch Passing
Designate two players or coaches about 15 - 20 feet apart just inside the blue line and place another two lines near center ice along the boards with pucks. The players will make a pass to the passer on the opposite side and then mmove their feet all the way around the passers. In the mean time the passers make as many passes back and forth as they can before giving a pass back to the first player in the scoring area. The player needs to receive the pass and get a shot off as quick as possible. Here's a link to the animation:
http://www.icehockeysystems.com/hockey-drills/quick-touch-passing-warm
Quarter Ice 3 vs 3
Here is a great small area game your players will LOVE! There are 6 players in a small space so quick decisions, passes, and shots are key to being successful. Players will have a lot of chance to finish pucks. Back door passes and rebounds will be in abundance and goalies will a great workout. To view all of the details visit Quarter Ice 3 vs 3 Small Area Game.