Barzal Uses Cutbacks to Create Time and Space vs Bruins

By: Ice Hockey Systems

In this clip Matt Barzal of the New York Islanders creates time and space by using cutbacks and puck protection skills to make a great play. There are some great skills involved that can be worked on in skill development sessions with edge work and combining it puck skills.

What to Watch

• He uses the outside edge of his inside skate to create the sharp cutback.
• Coming out of the cutback he moves his feet to gain separation.
• He maintains a wide base as he leans into the defender to give him stability and create distance between the puck and defender.
• When he cuts back to his forehand side his top hand remains off his hip, not folded under across his body, so he is ready to make a play coming out of the cutback.